1
|
Feiler MO, Kulick ER, Sinclair K, Spiegel N, Habel S, Castello OG. Toxic metals and pediatric clinical immune dysfunction: A systematic review of the epidemiological evidence. Sci Total Environ 2024; 927:172303. [PMID: 38599398 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children are at high risk for exposure to toxic metals and are vulnerable to their effects. Significant research has been conducted evaluating the role of these metals on immune dysfunction, characterized by biologic and clinical outcomes. However, there are inconsistencies in these studies. The objective of the present review is to critically evaluate the existing literature on the association between toxic metals (lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium) and pediatric immune dysfunction. METHODS Seven databases (PubMed (NLM), Embase (Elsevier), CINAHL (Ebsco), Web of Science (Clarivate Analytics), ProQuest Public Health Database, and ProQuest Environmental Science Collection) were searched following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines in February 2024. Rayaan software identified duplicates and screened by title and abstract in a blinded and independent review process. The remaining full texts were reviewed for content and summarized. Exclusions during the title, abstract, and full-text reviews included: 1) not original research, 2) not epidemiology, 3) did not include toxic metals, 4) did not examine an immune health outcome, or 5) not pediatric (>18 years). This systematic review protocol followed the PRISMA guidelines. Rayaan was used to screen records using title and abstract by two blinded and independent reviewers. This process was repeated for full-text article screening selection. RESULTS The search criteria produced 7906 search results; 2456 duplicate articles were removed across search engines. In the final review, 79 studies were included which evaluated the association between toxic metals and outcomes indicative of pediatric immune dysregulation. CONCLUSIONS The existing literature suggests an association between toxic metals and pediatric immune dysregulation. Given the imminent threat of infectious diseases demonstrated by the recent COVID-19 epidemic in addition to increases in allergic disease, understanding how ubiquitous exposure to these metals in early life can impact immune response, infection risk, and vaccine response is imperative.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marina Oktapodas Feiler
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, United States of America; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, United States of America.
| | - Erin R Kulick
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, United States of America
| | - Krystin Sinclair
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, United States of America
| | - Nitzana Spiegel
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, United States of America
| | - Sonia Habel
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, United States of America
| | - Olivia Given Castello
- Charles Library, Temple University Libraries, Temple University, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dai Y, Deng Q, Liu Q, Zhang L, Gan H, Pan X, Gu B, Tan L. Humoral immunosuppression of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and the roles of oxidative stress and inflammation. Environ Pollut 2024; 347:123741. [PMID: 38458516 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies have indicated adverse health effects of exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), but evidence on the association between PAH exposure and immunity is scarce and its underlying mechanism is largely unknown. This study assessed human exposure to PAHs by determining the concentrations of PAHs in serum and their metabolites in paired urine. The oxidative stress and inflammation levels were evaluated by urinary DNA damage biomarker 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine, white blood cell counts and C-reaction protein. We investigated the relationship between PAH exposure and seven immunological components, and explored the indirect roles of oxidative stress and inflammation by mediation and moderation analysis. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that 1-hydroxynaphthalene and 2-hydroxyfluorene were negatively associated with immunoglobulin A, and 3-hydroxyphenanthrene was negatively correlated with complement component 3. Restricted cubic spline analysis demonstrated nonlinear relationships between some individual PAHs or their metabolites with immunological components. Bayesian kernel machine regression and quantile g-computation revealed significant associations of higher PAH exposure with decreased immunoglobulin G and kappa light chain levels. Phenanthrene was the compound that contributed the most to reduced immunoglobulin G. Mediation analysis demonstrated significant indirect effects of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine and white blood cell counts on the association between higher PAH exposure and decreased immunological components. Moderation analysis revealed that PAH exposure and decreased immunological components are significantly associated with higher levels of C-reaction protein and white blood cell counts. The results demonstrated significant immunosuppression of PAH exposure and highlighted the indirect roles of oxidative stress and inflammation. Interventions to reduce systemic inflammation may mitigate the adverse immune effects of PAH exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingyi Dai
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou 510440, China; School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Qianyun Deng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Qiaojuan Liu
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou 510440, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou 510440, China
| | - Huiquan Gan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Xinhong Pan
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou 510440, China
| | - Bing Gu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Lei Tan
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou 510440, China; School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Huang J, Zeng Z, Xu X, Tian Q, Zheng K, Huo X. Blood lead levels of children exposed to e-waste: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2023; 30:64860-64871. [PMID: 37097575 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27114-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Blood lead levels (BLLs) have been decreasing worldwide for decades. However, systematic reviews and quantitative syntheses of BLLs in electronic waste (e-waste)-exposed children are lacking. To summarize temporal trend of BLLs among children in e-waste-recycling areas. Fifty-one studies met the inclusion criteria and included participants from six countries. Meta-analysis was performed using the random-effects model. Results showed that among e-waste-exposed children, the total geometric mean (GM) BLL was 7.54 μg/dL (95% CI: 6.77, 8.31). Children's BLLs displayed a decreasing temporal trend, from 11.77 μg/dL in phase I (2004-2006) to 4.63 μg/dL in phase V (2016-2018). Almost 95% of eligible studies found that children exposed to e-waste had significantly higher BLLs than reference groups. The difference of children's BLLs between the exposure group and the reference group was from 6.60 μg/dL (95% CI: 6.14, 7.05) in 2004 to 1.99 μg/dL (95% CI: 1.61, 2.36) in 2018. For subgroup analyses, except for Dhaka and Montevideo, the BLLs of children from Guiyu in the same survey year were higher than those of children from other regions. Our findings indicate that the gap between BLLs of children exposed to e-waste and those of reference group children is closing, and we appeal that the critical value for blood lead poisoning in children should be lowered in key e-waste-dismantling areas of developing countries, such as Guiyu.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jintao Huang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhijun Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Qianwen Tian
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Keyang Zheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Olarewaju E, Obeng-Gyasi E. Cadmium, Lead, Chronic Physiological Stress and Endometrial Cancer: How Environmental Policy Can Alter the Exposure of At-Risk Women in the United States. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11091278. [PMID: 37174820 PMCID: PMC10178079 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11091278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The health and life outcomes of individuals are intertwined with the context in which they grow and live. The totality of exposures one experiences affects health in the short term and throughout the life course. Environmental exposure to multiple contaminants can increase stress levels in individuals and neighborhoods with psychosocial stressors such as crime, drug and alcohol misuse, and violence also taking a toll on individual and neighborhood wellbeing. In addition, the availability, organization, and quality of local institutions and infrastructure all affect health in the short and long term. The role of these factors in endometrial cancer will be explored in this paper. In addition, policy implications regarding lead, chronic physiological stress, and endometrial cancer will be explored to ascertain the impact of these factors on at-risk women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Olarewaju
- Department of Built Environment, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA
- Environmental Health and Disease Laboratory, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA
| | - Emmanuel Obeng-Gyasi
- Department of Built Environment, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA
- Environmental Health and Disease Laboratory, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC 27411, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zheng K, Zeng Z, Tian Q, Huang J, Zhong Q, Huo X. Epidemiological evidence for the effect of environmental heavy metal exposure on the immune system in children. Sci Total Environ 2023; 868:161691. [PMID: 36669659 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metals exist widely in daily life, and exposure to heavy metals caused by environmental pollution has become a serious public health problem worldwide. Due to children's age-specific behavioral characteristics and imperfect physical function, the adverse health effects of heavy metals on children are much higher than in adults. Studies have found that heavy metal exposure is associated with low immune function in children. Although there are reviews describing the evidence for the adverse effects of heavy metal exposure on the immune system in children, the summary of evidence from epidemiological studies involving the level of immune molecules is not comprehensive. Therefore, this review summarizes the current epidemiological study on the effect of heavy metal exposure on childhood immune function from multiple perspectives, emphasizing its risks to the health of children's immune systems. It focuses on the effects of six heavy metals (lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), nickel (Ni), and manganese (Mn)) on children's innate immune cells, lymphocytes and their subpopulations, cytokines, total and specific immunoglobulins, and explores the immunotoxicological effects of heavy metals. The review finds that exposure to heavy metals, particularly Pb, Cd, As, and Hg, not only reduced lymphocyte numbers and suppressed adaptive immune responses in children, but also altered the innate immune response to impair the body's ability to fight pathogens. Epidemiological evidence suggests that heavy metal exposure alters cytokine levels and is associated with the development of inflammatory responses in children. Pb, As, and Hg exposure was associated with vaccination failure and decreased antibody titers, and increased risk of immune-related diseases in children by altering specific immunoglobulin levels. Cd, Ni and Mn showed activation effects on the immune response to childhood vaccination. Exposure age, sex, nutritional status, and co-exposure may influence the effects of heavy metals on immune function in children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keyang Zheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China; Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhijun Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Qianwen Tian
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China; Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Jintao Huang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China; Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Qi Zhong
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China; Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Desye B, Tesfaye AH, Berihun G, Ademas A, Sewunet B. A systematic review of the health effects of lead exposure from electronic waste in children. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1113561. [PMID: 37124790 PMCID: PMC10130399 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1113561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Electronic waste (e-waste) is an emerging human and environmental problem. Lead (Pb) is one of the most dangerous chemicals for human health, and it is the most prevalent heavy metal pollutant in e-waste. Despite the rapid growth of e-waste globally and the health effects of Pb, there is little information regarding the effects of Pb exposure from e-waste on children. Therefore, the aim of this review was to provide concise information on the health effects of Pb exposure from e-waste on children. Methods A comprehensive search of databases was undertaken using PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, HINARI, African Journal Online (AJOL), and additional sources were searched up to November 25, 2022. Eligibility criteria were determined using Population, Exposure, Comparator, and Outcome (PECO). The guidelines for Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) were used during the article selection process. The protocol of this systematic review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (Registration ID: CRD42022377028). The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) quality appraisal checklist was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Results From a total of 1,150 identified studies, 20 full-text studies were included in the systematic review. All most included studies were conducted in China recycling area for e-waste. The included studies were conducted with an exposed group versus a reference group. The majority of the included studies found that blood Pb levels were ≥5 μg/dl and that Pb exposures from e-waste were affecting children's health, such as a decrease in serum cortisol levels, inhibition of hemoglobin synthesis, impact on neurobehavioral development, affect physical development, etc. Conclusion Lead exposure had a significant impact on children's health as a result of informal e-waste recycling. Therefore, formalizing the informal sector and raising public health awareness are important steps toward reducing Pb exposure from e-waste. Moreover, the concerned stakeholders, like national and international organizations, should work together to effectively manage e-waste.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Belay Desye
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
- *Correspondence: Belay Desye,
| | - Amensisa Hailu Tesfaye
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Gete Berihun
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Ayechew Ademas
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Birhanu Sewunet
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zheng K, Zeng Z, Huang J, Tian Q, Cao B, Huo X. Kindergarten indoor dust metal(loid) exposure associates with elevated risk of anemia in children. Sci Total Environ 2022; 851:158227. [PMID: 35998718 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to metals and metalloids in indoor dust is associated with adverse health effects in young children, but there is limited evidence for an association with anemia, which is at high risk in children. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between exposure to multiple metal(loid)s in indoor dust in kindergartens and the risk of anemia in children. In 2021, 2165 children from 25 kindergartens in eastern China were included in the study and had their hemoglobin (Hb) measured. Indoor dust samples were collected from the children's kindergartens, and the concentrations of 11 metals and metalloids in the samples were measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The daily exposure dose (DED) of dust was used to assess the risk of metal(loid) exposure in the children. The results showed that of the 2165 children with available data, 351 (16.2 %) met the WHO definition of anemia. In multiple linear regression and logistic regression analyses, we found that for each quartile of DED increase in Cd inhalation, child Hb levels decreased by 2.703 g/L (95 % CI: -4.055, -1.351), and the risk of anemia increased 1.602-fold (95 % CI: 1.087, 2.360). Mn ingestion was associated with increased odds of anemia [odds ratio (OR) = 1.760 (95 % CI: 1.217, 2.544)]. Interaction analysis indicated that metal(loid)s exposure effects were modified by child sex, age, and body mass index (BMI). Cluster analysis found that children at high risk of metal(loid) exposure in the school environment tended to have lower Hb levels and higher prevalence of anemia compared with those at low risk, although this was not statistically significant. These findings suggest that child school exposure to metal(loid)s in indoor dust is associated with an increased risk of developing anemia in children, modified by child sex, age, and BMI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keyang Zheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China; Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhijun Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Jintao Huang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China; Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Qianwen Tian
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China; Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Bo Cao
- Community Health Service Center of Kou Town Street, Jinan 250000, Shandong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Parvez SM, Jahan F, Brune MN, Gorman JF, Rahman MJ, Carpenter D, Islam Z, Rahman M, Aich N, Knibbs LD, Sly PD. Health consequences of exposure to e-waste: an updated systematic review. Lancet Planet Health 2021; 5:e905-e920. [PMID: 34895498 PMCID: PMC8674120 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(21)00263-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Electronic waste (e-waste) contains numerous chemicals harmful to human and ecological health. To update a 2013 review assessing adverse human health consequences of exposure to e-waste, we systematically reviewed studies reporting effects on humans related to e-waste exposure. We searched EMBASE, PsycNET, Web of Science, CINAHL, and PubMed for articles published between Dec 18, 2012, and Jan 28, 2020, restricting our search to publications in English. Of the 5645 records identified, we included 70 studies that met the preset criteria. People living in e-waste exposed regions had significantly elevated levels of heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants. Children and pregnant women were especially susceptible during the critical periods of exposure that detrimentally affect diverse biological systems and organs. Elevated toxic chemicals negatively impact on neonatal growth indices and hormone level alterations in e-waste exposed populations. We recorded possible connections between chronic exposure to e-waste and DNA lesions, telomere attrition, inhibited vaccine responsiveness, elevated oxidative stress, and altered immune function. The existence of various toxic chemicals in e-waste recycling areas impose plausible adverse health outcomes. Novel cost-effective methods for safe recycling operations need to be employed in e-waste sites to ensure the health and safety of vulnerable populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarker M Parvez
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Environmental Intervention Unit, Infectious Diseases Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Farjana Jahan
- Environmental Intervention Unit, Infectious Diseases Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Marie-Noel Brune
- Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health, WHO, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Julia F Gorman
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Musarrat J Rahman
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - David Carpenter
- School of Public Health, Environmental Health Sciences, University at Albany, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Zahir Islam
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Mahbubur Rahman
- Environmental Intervention Unit, Infectious Diseases Division, icddr,b, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Nirupam Aich
- Department of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Luke D Knibbs
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter D Sly
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Huang W, Shi X, Wu K. Human Body Burden of Heavy Metals and Health Consequences of Pb Exposure in Guiyu, an E-Waste Recycling Town in China. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:ijerph182312428. [PMID: 34886154 PMCID: PMC8657058 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Guiyu accommodates millions of tons of e-waste from overseas and domestic sources each year and is notorious for its e-waste dismantling industry. As a consequence, Guiyu has been described as "the world's most toxic place" and "junk town". Informal e-waste recycling activities have caused severe pollution to the local environment and are associated with extensive health problems to the residents. This review provides updated insights on the body burden of heavy metals derived from e-waste and health outcomes resulted from lead (Pb) exposure. The review identified that Guiyu has been highly contaminated by heavy metals, especially Pb. Excessive exposure to Pb has been associated with multi-system and long-term effects in neonates and children, covering nervous, cardiovascular, adaptive immune, and hematologic systems as well as chromosome and DNA damage. Our review indicates strong associations that emphasize the need to develop strong regulations for prevention of exposure and health consequences in Guiyu and similar sites around the world.
Collapse
|
10
|
Meng Y, Wang K, Wang T, Tu Y, Gong S, Zhang Y, Zhang G, Au W, Christiani DC, Xia ZL. Early occupational exposure to lead on neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and genotoxicity. Environ Int 2021; 151:106448. [PMID: 33618327 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lead (Pb) is known to induce detrimental health effects in exposed populations, including hematotoxicity and genotoxicity. Complete blood count (CBC) is a cost-effective and easy way to determine toxicity, and variations in proportion of different types of leukocytes: neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) are further evidence of hematotoxicity. However, few studies have been conducted to systematically evaluate effects of occupational Pb exposure on NLR and LMR, and their associations with genotoxicity. OBJECTIVES Our study was aimed to systematically assess the effects of current occupational Pb exposure on NLR and LMR, and their associations with genotoxicity. METHODS Our investigation was performed on 1176 workers from a newly built battery factory in North China. The workers had just entered their current job position in recent years and most of them had no previous history of occupational exposure to Pb. Blood lead levels (BLLs) and leukocytes indices were detected for all participants. Cytokinesis-blocked micronucleus assay (MN; n = 675) and alkaline comet assay (% tail DNA; n = 869) were used to assess genotoxicity. Multivariate linear and Poisson regression analyses were conducted to examine associations between leukocytes indices, genotoxic biomarkers and BLLs with adjustment for covariates. Spearman correlation and mediation analyses were used to investigate relationships between NLR and genotoxicity. RESULTS Among all the exposed workers, NLR increased with increasing BLLs. However, WBC and LMR did not change significantly. Significant and dose-dependent increases in both MN frequencies and % tail DNA were observed among groups with different exposure doses. Compared with the normal NLR group (1.48 ≤ NLR < 4.58), the high NLR group (NLR ≥ 4.58) had higher % tail DNA. In addition, there was a significant and positive association between NLR and % tail DNA among all the workers, and % tail DNA mediated 15% of the effect of Pb on increasing NLR. CONCLUSION Our large-scale population study shows that Pb exposure increased NLR and induced genotoxicity. There was an association between elevated NLR and DNA damage. In addition, the mediation effect of % tail DNA on the relationship between BLLs and NLR provided mechanistic evidence that certain mechanisms, e.g. inflammation, may be involved in elevation of NLR from Pb exposure. Therefore, NLR may be a convenient and sensitive biomarker for indication of Pb toxicity. Further studies are needed to validate the proposed mechanism and NLR as a biomarker.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Meng
- Department of Occupational Health & Toxicology, School of Public Health, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, 130 Dongan Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Kan Wang
- Department of Occupational Health & Toxicology, School of Public Health, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, 130 Dongan Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Tuanwei Wang
- Department of Occupational Health & Toxicology, School of Public Health, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, 130 Dongan Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yuting Tu
- Department of Occupational Health & Toxicology, School of Public Health, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, 130 Dongan Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shiyang Gong
- Department of Occupational Health & Toxicology, School of Public Health, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, 130 Dongan Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yunxia Zhang
- Department of Occupational Health & Toxicology, School of Public Health, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, 130 Dongan Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Guanghui Zhang
- Department of Occupational & Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang 453003, Henan Province, China
| | - William Au
- University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology, Targu Mures, Romania, and University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - David C Christiani
- Environmental Medicine and Epidemiology Program, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Zhao-Lin Xia
- Department of Occupational Health & Toxicology, School of Public Health, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, 130 Dongan Road, Shanghai 200032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zheng X, Xu X, Lu F, Wang Q, Zeng Z, Huo X. High serum IgG subclass concentrations in children with e-waste Pb and Cd exposure. Sci Total Environ 2021; 764:142806. [PMID: 33757236 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is the predominant component of the humoral immune system. Epidemiological studies have shown that lead (Pb) or cadmium (Cd) exposure is associated with changes in human IgG levels, and alteration of IgG subclass production can be induced by differential modulation of Th1 and Th2 cytokines caused by Pb or Cd exposure. However, no study has focused on the adverse effects of Pb and Cd co-exposure on IgG subclass production by regulating Th1/Th2 cytokines in children living in electronic waste (e-waste) areas. This study aims to analyze the associations among Pb and Cd in blood, Th1/Th2 cytokines, and IgG subclasses in serum from children. A total of 181 healthy, 2- to 7-year-old children were examined. Of them, 104 were from Guiyu (e-waste exposed group), and the rest were from Haojiang (reference group) in China. Pb and Cd levels in whole blood, cytokines, and IgG subclasses in serum were determined. Exposed children had higher levels of blood Pb and Cd, serum IgG1, IgG1 + IgG2, serum Th1 cytokine interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and lower levels of the Th2 cytokine interleukin (IL)-13. Increased blood Pb levels were positively associated with serum levels of IFN-γ, and negatively associated with serum levels of IL-13. Adjusted linear regression analysis showed that serum levels of IL-13 were negatively associated with serum levels of IgG1 and IgG1 + IgG2. Mediation models indicated that IL-13 had significant mediating effects on the relationships between blood Pb levels and serum IgG1, as well as between blood Pb levels and serum IgG1 + IgG2. Increased blood Cd levels were positively associated with serum levels of IgG1. Our results show heavy metal (particularly Pb) exposure may affect IgG subclass production by regulating Th1/Th2 cytokines in exposed children, thus providing new evidence for a relationship between humoral immune function and environmental exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangbin Zheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Fangfang Lu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Qihua Wang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhijun Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chen Z, Huo X, Zhang S, Cheng Z, Huang Y, Xu X. Relations of blood lead levels to echocardiographic left ventricular structure and function in preschool children. Chemosphere 2021; 268:128793. [PMID: 33143894 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.128793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) has been proved to exert adverse effect on human cardiovascular system. However, the cardiotoxicity of Pb on children is still unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate left ventricular (LV) structure and function, by using echocardiographic indices, in order to elucidate the effect of Pb on low-grade inflammation related to left ventricle in healthy preschool children. We recruited a total of 486 preschool children, 310 from Guiyu (e-waste-exposed area) and 176 from Haojiang (reference area). Blood Pb levels, complete blood counts, and LV parameters were evaluated. Associations between blood Pb levels and LV parameters and peripheral leukocyte counts were analyzed using linear regression models. The median blood level of Pb and the counts of white blood cells (WBCs), monocytes, and neutrophils were higher in exposed group. In addition, the exposed group showed smaller left ventricle (including interventricular septum, LV posterior wall, and LV mass index) and impaired LV systolic function (including LV fractional shortening and LV ejection fraction) regardless gender. After adjustment for confounding factors, elevated blood Pb levels were significantly associated with higher counts of WBCs and neutrophils, and lower levels of LV parameters. Furthermore, counts of WBCs, monocytes, and neutrophils were negatively correlated with LV parameters. Taken together, smaller left ventricle and impaired systolic function were found in e-waste-exposed children and associated with chronic low-grade inflammation and elevated blood Pb levels. It indicates that the heart health of e-waste-exposed children is at risk due to the long-term environmental chemical insults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Chen
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511443, Guangdong, China
| | - Shaocheng Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiheng Cheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Yu Huang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
Pb exposure is a worldwide environmental contamination issue which has been of concern to more and more people. Exposure to environmental Pb and its compounds through food and respiratory routes causes toxic damage to the digestive, respiratory, cardiovascular and nervous systems, etc. Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to Pb. Pb exposure significantly destroys children's learning ability, intelligence and perception ability. Mitochondria are involved in various life processes of eukaryotes and are one of the most sensitive organelles to various injuries. There is no doubt that Pb-induced mitochondrial damage can widely affect various physiological processes and cause great harm. In this review, we summarized the toxic effects of Pb on mitochondria which led to various pathological processes. Pb induces mitochondrial dysfunction leading to the increased level of oxidative stress. In addition, Pb leads to cell apoptosis via mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP) opening. Also, Pb can stimulate the development of mitochondria-mediated inflammatory responses. Furthermore, Pb triggers the germination of autophagy via the mitochondrial pathway and induces mitochondrial dysfunction, disturbing intracellular calcium homeostasis. In a word, we discussed the effects of Pb exposure on mitochondria, hoping to provide some references for further research and better therapeutic options for Pb exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Han
- The First Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Nanchang University, China
| | - JingChong Guo
- The First Clinical Medical College of Nanchang University, China
| | - Qian Zhu
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Nanchang University, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Nanchang University, China
| | - YongLi Xia
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Nanchang University, China
| | - Gaochun Zhu
- Department of Anatomy, Medical College of Nanchang University, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Wang M, Xia W, Zeng Q, Zhang W, Qian X, Bao S, Zhou A, Li Y, Xu S. Associations between prenatal and postnatal lead exposure and preschool children humoral and cellular immune responses. Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 2021; 207:111536. [PMID: 33254398 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Studies have shown that lead exposure affected the immune function, but few studies have examined the relationships between in utero lead exposure, a sensitive period that is important for immune development, and later immune responses. To investigate the effects of prenatal and childhood lead exposure on the preschool-aged children's immune responses, a prospective birth cohort study was established in Wuhan, China, in which lead concentrations were analyzed in maternal urine during the third trimester and in plasma samples from children aged about 3 years. We assessed immune responses by measuring immune cytokines in the children's plasma (n = 326) and peripheral blood T lymphocyte subsets (n = 394) at 3 years of age. Each unit increase in maternal urinary lead concentration (μg/g creatinine) was associated with reduced IL-10 (β = -5.93%, 95%CI: -11.82%, -0.03%) and reduced IL-4 levels (β = -5.62%, 95%CI: -10.44%, -0.80%). Lead in children's plasma (μg/L) was associated with significant increase in TNF-α (β = 10.78%, 95%CI: 3.97%, 17.59%). No statistically significant relationship of childhood lead exposure with T lymphocyte subsets was observed. The study suggested prenatal and childhood lead exposure was associated with changes in preschool children's plasma cytokine levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Wei Xia
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China.
| | - Qiang Zeng
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Wenxin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Xi Qian
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Shuangshuang Bao
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Aifen Zhou
- Wuhan Medical and Healthcare Center for Women and Children, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Shunqing Xu
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, Ministry of Education & Ministry of Environmental Protection, and State Key Laboratory of Environmental Health (incubating), School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Skalny AV, Lima TRR, Ke T, Zhou JC, Bornhorst J, Alekseenko SI, Aaseth J, Anesti O, Sarigiannis DA, Tsatsakis A, Aschner M, Tinkov AA. Toxic metal exposure as a possible risk factor for COVID-19 and other respiratory infectious diseases. Food Chem Toxicol 2020; 146:111809. [PMID: 33069759 PMCID: PMC7563920 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2020.111809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Multiple medical, lifestyle, and environmental conditions, including smoking and particulate pollution, have been considered as risk factors for COronaVIrus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) susceptibility and severity. Taking into account the high level of toxic metals in both particulate matter (PM2.5) and tobacco smoke, the objective of this review is to discuss recent data on the role of heavy metal exposure in development of respiratory dysfunction, immunotoxicity, and severity of viral diseases in epidemiological and experimental studies, as to demonstrate the potential crossroads between heavy metal exposure and COVID-19 severity risk. The existing data demonstrate that As, Cd, Hg, and Pb exposure is associated with respiratory dysfunction and respiratory diseases (COPD, bronchitis). These observations corroborate laboratory findings on the role of heavy metal exposure in impaired mucociliary clearance, reduced barrier function, airway inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. The association between heavy metal exposure and severity of viral diseases, including influenza and respiratory syncytial virus has been also demonstrated. The latter may be considered a consequence of adverse effects of metal exposure on adaptive immunity. Therefore, reduction of toxic metal exposure may be considered as a potential tool for reducing susceptibility and severity of viral diseases affecting the respiratory system, including COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anatoly V Skalny
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia; Federal Research Centre of Biological Systems and Agro-technologies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Orenburg, Russia.
| | - Thania Rios Rossi Lima
- São Paulo State University - UNESP, Center for Evaluation of Environmental Impact on Human Health (TOXICAM), Botucatu, SP, Brazil; Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Tao Ke
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Ji-Chang Zhou
- School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Julia Bornhorst
- Food Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Svetlana I Alekseenko
- I.I. Mechnikov North-Western State Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia; K.A. Rauhfus Children's City Multidisciplinary Clinical Center for High Medical Technologies, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Jan Aaseth
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia; Research Department, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Brumunddal, Norway
| | - Ourania Anesti
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, Heraklion, Crete, Greece; HERACLES Research Center on the Exposome and Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thermi, Greece
| | - Dimosthenis A Sarigiannis
- HERACLES Research Center on the Exposome and Health, Center for Interdisciplinary Research and Innovation, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thermi, Greece; University School of Advanced Studies IUSS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Aristides Tsatsakis
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia; Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Michael Aschner
- IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russia; Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhang Y, Huo X, Lu X, Zeng Z, Faas MM, Xu X. Exposure to multiple heavy metals associate with aberrant immune homeostasis and inflammatory activation in preschool children. Chemosphere 2020; 257:127257. [PMID: 32534297 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metals generate adverse health effects by interfering with immune homeostasis and promoting inflammation in individuals. Our objective was to explore the induction of immune and inflammatory responses by multiple heavy metals in children living in the e-waste contaminated area. A total of 147 preschool children were recruited, including 73 children from Guiyu, a typical e-waste recycling area, and 74 from a reference group. Blood levels of heavy metals, including lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) and arsenic (As), were detected using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Immune cell counts (neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes) were determined by an automatic blood cell analyzer, pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1RA, IL-4, IL-10, IL-13) were analyzed by a Luminex 200 multiplex immunoassay instrument. Multiple correspondences and linear regression analyses were applied to investigate the relationships between heavy metal exposure and relevant parameters. Results shows Guiyu children had higher levels of Pb, Cd, Hg, As, IL-1β and IL-6, but decreased lymphocyte, IL-1RA and IL-13. Neutrophil count was positively correlated with Pb, Cd and Hg exposure. Anti-inflammatory IL-1RA concentration was negatively related with Pb, Cd, Hg and As, while pro-inflammatory IL-1β and IL-6 were positively correlated with Pb. Guiyu children may have dysregulated immune response and high inflammation risk. Exposure to Pb, Cd, Hg and As could be harmful for immune response and inflammatory regulation. Our finding of decreased IL-RA production in children exposed to Pb, Cd, Hg, and As is novel and could be an opportunity for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Xia Huo
- School of Environment, Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Environmental Exposure and Health, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Xueling Lu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Zhijun Zeng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Marijke M Faas
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zeng X, Huo X, Xu X, Liu D, Wu W. E-waste lead exposure and children's health in China. Sci Total Environ 2020; 734:139286. [PMID: 32460072 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.139286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
China is one of the countries worldwide confronted with serious e-waste pollution and associated detrimental health effects, which has aroused public, academic and governmental concerns. Most local residents are exposed to hazardous substances such as lead (Pb) and other persistent organic pollutants because of informal e-waste recycling activities. This study reviews recent studies on children exposed to e-waste Pb in China focusing on health-related effects in children (e.g. growth and development, cardiovascular, immune, nervous, respiratory, reproductive, skeletal, and urinary systems) and evaluating the evidence for the association between e-waste Pb exposure and the children health outcomes in China. Children are one of most sensitive and vulnerable groups when facing e-waste Pb exposure. Previous data indicate that exposure to e-waste Pb has adverse effect on human health such as delayed and damaged physical and nervous development. It is the time to take effective measures, such as upgrading e-waste recycling technology, enhancing government policy guidance and support, and strengthening environmental protection and health awareness of the local inhabitants, to prevent the adverse effects of e-waste.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zeng
- School of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang 453003, Henan, China; Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China; Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China.
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Road, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Dongling Liu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang 453003, China
| | - Weidong Wu
- School of Public Health, Xinxiang Medical University, 601 Jinsui Road, Xinxiang 453003, Henan, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ebrahimi M, Khalili N, Razi S, Keshavarz-Fathi M, Khalili N, Rezaei N. Effects of lead and cadmium on the immune system and cancer progression. J Environ Health Sci Eng 2020; 18:335-343. [PMID: 32399244 PMCID: PMC7203386 DOI: 10.1007/s40201-020-00455-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
In our daily life, we are surrounded by harmful pollutants, including heavy metals that are not visible in the macroscopic view easily. Heavy metals can disrupt different aspects of human health, such as the immune system which has gained a lot of attention in recent decades. This had led to its rapid progression and new insights into its alterations in different diseases especially cancer. Heavy metals are non-biodegradable materials that exist in different parts of the food cycle, such as fruits and vegetables as commonly consumed foods and also unexpected sources such as street dust, that exists in the streets that we pass every day, soil, air, and water. These heavy metals can enter the human body through respiratory, cutaneous, and gastrointestinal pathways and then accumulate in different organs, leading to their encountering with various parts of the body. These sources and natural characteristics of heavy metals facilitate their interaction with the immune system. In this review, we investigated the effect of lead and cadmium, as pollutants that exist in many different parts of the human environment, on the immune system which is known to have a key role in the pathophysiology of cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ebrahimi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
- Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Neda Khalili
- Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sepideh Razi
- Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Keshavarz-Fathi
- Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nastaran Khalili
- Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children’s Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Southampton, UK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Akhtar A, Kazi TG, Afridi HI, Baig JA, Arain MB. A tandem ionic liquid‐based dispersive microextraction method using in‐syringe air‐assisted vesicle system for rapid determination of lead and cadmium in artificial sweat extract of facial cosmetic products. Appl Organomet Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/aoc.5784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Asma Akhtar
- National Centre of Excellence in Analytical ChemistryUniversity of Sindh Jamshoro 76080 Pakistan
| | - Tasneem Gul Kazi
- National Centre of Excellence in Analytical ChemistryUniversity of Sindh Jamshoro 76080 Pakistan
| | - Hassan Imran Afridi
- National Centre of Excellence in Analytical ChemistryUniversity of Sindh Jamshoro 76080 Pakistan
| | - Jameel Ahmed Baig
- National Centre of Excellence in Analytical ChemistryUniversity of Sindh Jamshoro 76080 Pakistan
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhang S, Huo X, Li M, Hou R, Cong X, Xu X. Oral antimicrobial activity weakened in children with electronic waste lead exposure. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2020; 27:14763-14770. [PMID: 32056098 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-08037-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Environmental lead (Pb) exposure can induce dysbacteriosis, impair oral health, and is associated with the development of dental caries. However, the mechanism is unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of Pb toxicity on oral antimicrobial activity in children in an e-waste area. Results showed higher blood Pb levels in e-waste-exposed group children, accompanied by decreased saliva SAG (salivary agglutinin) concentrations, increased peripheral WBC (white blood cell) counts and monocyte counts, and elevated peripheral monocyte percentage. LnPb (natural logarithmic transformation of blood Pb level) was negatively correlated with saliva SAG concentration, while positively correlated with peripheral monocyte percentage. Saliva SAG concentration played a complete mediating role in the correlation of LnPb to peripheral monocyte percentage. To our knowledge, this is the first study on the relationship of environmental Pb exposure and oral antimicrobial activity in children, showing that environmental Pb exposure may weaken oral antimicrobial activity through reducing saliva SAG concentration, which may raise the risk of oral dysbacteriosis and ultimately pathogen infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaocheng Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Rd, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 511486, Guangdong, China
| | - Minghui Li
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Rd, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Ruikun Hou
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Rd, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaowei Cong
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Rd, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, 22 Xinling Rd, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China.
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Dai Y, Huo X, Cheng Z, Wang Q, Zhang Y, Xu X. Alterations in platelet indices link polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons toxicity to low-grade inflammation in preschool children. Environ Int 2019; 131:105043. [PMID: 31352259 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.105043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental exposure to carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can disturb the immune response. However, the effect of PAHs on low-grade inflammation related to platelets in humans is unknown. OBJECTIVES We investigated the association of PAH exposure with low-grade inflammation and platelet parameters in healthy preschoolers. METHODS The present study recruited 239 participants, aged 2-7 years, from an electronic-waste (e-waste)-exposed (n = 118) and a reference (n = 121) area. We measured ten urinary PAH metabolites, four types of immune cells and cytokines, and seven platelet parameters, and compared their differences between children from the two groups. Spearman correlation analysis was performed to explore the potential risk factors for PAH exposure and the associations between urinary monohydroxylated PAHs (OH-PAHs) and biological parameters. Associations between urinary PAH metabolites and platelet indices were analyzed using quantile regression models. Mediation analysis was used to understand the relationship between urinary total hydroxynaphthalene (ΣOHNa) and interleukin (IL)-1β through seven platelet indices, as mediator variables. RESULTS We found higher urinary monohydroxylated PAH (OH-PAH) concentrations, especially 1-hydroxynaphthalene (1-OHNa) and 2-hydroxynaphthalene (2-OHNa), in children from the e-waste-exposed group than in the reference group. These were closely associated with child personal habits and family environment. A decreased lymphocyte ratio and increased pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as gamma interferon-inducible protein (IP)-10 and IL-1β, were found in the e-waste-exposed children. After adjustment for confounding factors, significantly negative correlations were found between levels of mean platelet volume (MPV), platelet distribution width (PDW), platelet-large cell ratio (P-LCR) and ratio of mean platelet volume to platelet count (MPVP) and OH-PAHs. In addition, ΣOHNa was positively associated with IL-1β mediated through MPV, PDW, P-LCR, and ratio of platelet count to lymphocyte count (PLR). CONCLUSIONS Platelet indices were significantly associated with the changes in urinary OH-PAH levels, which may can be regarded as effective biomarkers of low-grade inflammation resulting from low PAH exposure in healthy children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yifeng Dai
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen 9713 GZ, the Netherlands
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangzhou and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiheng Cheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen 9713 GZ, the Netherlands
| | - Qihua Wang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangzhou and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuling Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Zheng X, Huo X, Zhang Y, Wang Q, Zhang Y, Xu X. Cardiovascular endothelial inflammation by chronic coexposure to lead (Pb) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from preschool children in an e-waste recycling area. Environ Pollut 2019; 246:587-596. [PMID: 30597391 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.12.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Revised: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) exposure is positively associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD), and the possible potential mechanism may be caused by damage to the endothelium by modulation of inflammatory processes. No comprehensive research shows co-exposure of Pb and PAH on cardiovascular endothelial inflammation in electronic waste (e-waste) exposed populations. Given this, the aim of this study is to provide evidence for a relationship between Pb and PAH co-exposure and cardiovascular endothelial inflammation, in an e-waste-exposed population, to delineate the link between a potential mechanism for CVD and environmental exposure. We recruited 203 preschool children (3-7 years) were enrolled from Guiyu (e-waste-exposed group, n = 105) and Haojiang (reference group, n = 98). Blood Pb levels and urinary PAH metabolites were measured. Percentages of T cells, CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells, complete blood counts, endothelial inflammation biomarker (serum S100A8/A9), and other inflammatory biomarkers [serum interleukin (IL)-6, IL-12p70, gamma interferon-inducible protein 10 (IP-10)] levels were evaluated. Blood Pb, total urinary hydroxylated PAH (ΣOHPAH), total hydroxynaphthalene (ΣOHNap) and total hydroxyfluorene (ΣOHFlu) levels, S100A8/A9, IL-6, IL-12p70 and IP-10 concentrations, absolute counts of monocytes, neutrophils, and leukocytes, as well as CD4+ T cell percentages were significantly higher in exposed children. Elevated blood Pb, urinary 2-hydroxynaphthalene (2-OHNap) and ΣOHFlu levels were associated with higher levels of IL-6, IL-12p70, IP-10, CD4+ T cell percentages, neutrophil and monocyte counts. Mediator models indicated that neutrophils exert the significant mediation effect on the relationship between blood Pb levels and S100A8/A9. IL-6 exerts a significant mediation effect on the relationship between blood Pb levels and IP-10, as well as the relationship between urinary ΣOHFlu levels and IP-10. Our results indicate that children with elevated exposure levels of Pb and PAHs have exacerbated vascular endothelial inflammation, which may indicate future CVD risk in e-waste recycling areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangbin Zheng
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, 9713, GZ, the Netherlands
| | - Qihua Wang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuling Zhang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China; Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Qin Q, Xu X, Dai Q, Ye K, Wang C, Huo X. Air pollution and body burden of persistent organic pollutants at an electronic waste recycling area of China. Environ Geochem Health 2019; 41:93-123. [PMID: 30171476 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-018-0176-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This paper reviews the concentrations of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in atmosphere of an electronic waste (e-waste) recycling town, Guiyu, in Southeast China, focusing on polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). We assess the evidence for the association between air pollution and human body burden, to provide an indication of the severity of respiratory exposure. Compared with standards and available existing data for other areas, it clearly shows that four typical POPs, derived from recycling processes, lead to serious atmospheric pollution and heavy body burden. From published data, the estimated respiratory exposure doses of Guiyu adults and children, varied between 2.48-10.37 and 3.25-13.6 ng kg-1 body weight (bw) day-1 for PBDEs, 2.31-7.6 and 4.09-13.58 pg World Health Organization-Toxic Equivalent Quantity (WHO-TEQ) kg-1 bw day-1 for PCDD/Fs, 5.57 and 20.52 ng kg-1 bw day-1 for PCBs, and 8.59-50.01 and 31.64-184.14 ng kg-1 bw day-1 for PAHs, respectively. These results show that air pollution is more harmful to children. Furthermore, except for PBDEs, the hazard quotient (HQ) of the other three pollutants was rated more than 1 by respiratory exposure only, and all of them are at risk of carcinogenesis. So we speculate these pollutants enter the body mainly through air inhalation, making respiratory exposure may be more important than dietary exposure in the Guiyu e-waste recycling area. Effective management policies and remediation techniques are urgently needed to prevent the deterioration of ambient air quality in the e-waste recycling area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qilin Qin
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou, 511486, Guangdong, China
| | - Xijin Xu
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515063, Guangdong, China
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515063, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingyuan Dai
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou, 511486, Guangdong, China
| | - Kai Ye
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou, 511486, Guangdong, China
| | - Chenyang Wang
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, and Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515063, Guangdong, China
| | - Xia Huo
- Laboratory of Environmental Medicine and Developmental Toxicology, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, School of Environment, Jinan University, 855 East Xingye Avenue, Guangzhou, 511486, Guangdong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Awasthi AK, Wang M, Awasthi MK, Wang Z, Li J. Environmental pollution and human body burden from improper recycling of e-waste in China: A short-review. Environ Pollut 2018; 243:1310-1316. [PMID: 30268981 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
BRIEF BACKGROUND E-waste generation has become a serious environmental challenge worldwide. The global quantity of e-waste was estimated 44.7 million metric tons (Mt) in 2016. The improper recycling of e-waste is still a challenging issue in developing countries. OBJECTIVE The objectives of this a review article to present comprehensive information of recent studied on environment pollution and effect on human health in China. METHOD The search engines consulted, period of publications reviewed 2015-2018. For search study, we used different key words: 'improper recycling', 'primitive recycling,' 'backyard recycling,' 'e-waste,' 'WEEE', and the studies related to improper recycling of e-waste. RESULTS According to reports, the e-waste recycled by unorganized sectors in China. These unorganized sector workers daily go for work, such as e-waste collection from consumer house and manual dismantling of e-waste by using simple method, at unauthorized workshop. These backyard workshop are reported in small clusters in or around city e.g., Qingyuan village; Taizhou, Longtang Town, Guiyu, nearby Nanyang River and Beigang River in China. DISCUSSION The earlier reported studies directed the heavy metals effect (causing effects both acute and chronic effects; respiratory irritation, reproductive problem, cardiovascular and urinary infection/disease) on human health. According the reports, the improper recycling of e-waste which need to be address for the environment protection and prevention of public health risk. However, if e-waste exposure is not avoided very well, the associated contamination will be continuing, and simultaneously needful to increase the awareness for proper e-waste management in China. CONCLUSIONS In order to solve the e-waste problem in China, more detail research is needed. Furthermore, for environment protection and health safety, the proper e-waste dismantling techniques, environmentally sound management, and the regular monitoring are very important.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Kumar Awasthi
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Key Laboratory for Solid Waste Management and Environment Safety (Ministry of Education of China), Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Mengmeng Wang
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Key Laboratory for Solid Waste Management and Environment Safety (Ministry of Education of China), Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | | | - Zhishi Wang
- Macau Environmental Research Institute, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
| | - Jinhui Li
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; Key Laboratory for Solid Waste Management and Environment Safety (Ministry of Education of China), Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| |
Collapse
|