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Guidi P, Bernardeschi M, Palumbo M, Buttino I, Vitiello V, Scarcelli V, Chiaretti G, Fiorati A, Pellegrini D, Pontorno L, Bonciani L, Punta C, Corsi I, Frenzilli G. Eco-Friendly Engineered Nanomaterials Coupled with Filtering Fine-Mesh Net as a Promising Tool to Remediate Contaminated Freshwater Sludges: An Ecotoxicity Investigation. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2023; 13:396. [PMID: 36770355 PMCID: PMC9920148 DOI: 10.3390/nano13030396] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The use of eco-friendly engineered nanomaterials represents a recent solution for an effective and safe treatment of contaminated dredging sludge. In this study, an eco-designed engineered material based on cross-linked nanocellulose (CNS) was applied for the first time to decontaminate a real matrix from heavy metals (namely Zn, Ni, Cu, and Fe) and other undesired elements (mainly Ba and As) in a lab-scale study, with the aim to design a safe solution for the remediation of contaminated matrices. Contaminated freshwater sludge was treated with CNS coupled with a filtering fine-mesh net, and the obtained waters were tested for acute and sublethal toxicity. In order to check the safety of the proposed treatment system, toxicity tests were conducted by exposing the bacterium Aliivibrio fischeri and the crustacean Heterocypris incongruens, while subtoxicity biomarkers such as lysosomal membrane stability, genetic, and chromosomal damage assessment were performed on the freshwater bivalve Dreissena polymorpha. Dredging sludge was found to be genotoxic, and such genotoxicity was mitigated by the combined use of CNS and a filtering fine-mesh net. Chemical analyses confirmed the results by highlighting the abetment of target contaminants, indicating the present model as a promising tool in freshwater sludge nanoremediation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Guidi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, and INSTM Local Unit, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Margherita Bernardeschi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, and INSTM Local Unit, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Mara Palumbo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, and INSTM Local Unit, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Isabella Buttino
- Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via del Cedro, 38, 57123 Livorno, Italy
| | - Valentina Vitiello
- Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via del Cedro, 38, 57123 Livorno, Italy
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, and INSTM Local Unit, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Gianluca Chiaretti
- Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via del Cedro, 38, 57123 Livorno, Italy
| | - Andrea Fiorati
- Department of Chemistry, Materials, and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta”, and INSTM Local Unit, Politecnico di Milano, 20131 Milano, Italy
| | - David Pellegrini
- Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via del Cedro, 38, 57123 Livorno, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Pontorno
- Biochemie Lab. S.r.l, Via di Limite 27G, 50013 Campi Bisenzio, Italy
| | - Lisa Bonciani
- Biochemie Lab. S.r.l, Via di Limite 27G, 50013 Campi Bisenzio, Italy
| | - Carlo Punta
- Department of Chemistry, Materials, and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta”, and INSTM Local Unit, Politecnico di Milano, 20131 Milano, Italy
| | - Ilaria Corsi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, and INSTM Local Unit, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Giada Frenzilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, and INSTM Local Unit, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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Carere M, Antoccia A, Buschini A, Frenzilli G, Marcon F, Andreoli C, Gorbi G, Suppa A, Montalbano S, Prota V, De Battistis F, Guidi P, Bernardeschi M, Palumbo M, Scarcelli V, Colasanti M, D'Ezio V, Persichini T, Scalici M, Sgura A, Spani F, Udroiu I, Valenzuela M, Lacchetti I, di Domenico K, Cristiano W, Marra V, Ingelido AM, Iacovella N, De Felip E, Massei R, Mancini L. An integrated approach for chemical water quality assessment of an urban river stretch through Effect-Based Methods and emerging pollutants analysis with a focus on genotoxicity. J Environ Manage 2021; 300:113549. [PMID: 34543968 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.113549] [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: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The impact of emerging chemical pollutants, on both status and functionality of aquatic ecosystems is worldwide recognized as a relevant issue of concern that should be assessed and managed by researchers, policymakers, and all relevant stakeholders. In Europe, the Reach Regulation has registered more than 100.000 chemical substances daily released in the environment. Furthermore, the effects related to the mixture of substances present in aquatic ecosystems may not be predictable on the basis of chemical analyses alone. This evidence, coupled with the dramatic effects of climate changes on water resources through water scarcity and flooding, makes urgent the application of innovative, fast and reliable monitoring methods. In this context, Effect-Based Methods (EBMs) have been applied in the urban stretch of the Tiber River (Central Italy) with the aim of understanding if detrimental pressures affect aquatic environmental health. In particular, different eco-genotoxicological assays have been used in order to detect genotoxic activity of chemicals present in the river, concurrently characterized by chemical analysis. Teratogenicity and embryo-toxicity have been studied in order to cover additional endpoints. The EBMs have highlighted the presence of diffuse chemical pollution and ecotoxicological effects in the three sampling stations, genotoxicological effects have been also detected through the use of different tests and organisms. The chemical analyses confirmed that in the aquatic ecosystems there is a diffuse presence, even at low concentrations, of emerging contaminants such as pharmaceuticals, not routinely monitored pesticides, personal care products, PFAS. The results of this study can help to identify an appropriate battery of EBMs for future studies and the application of more appropriate measures in order to monitor, mitigate or eliminate chemical contamination and remediate its adverse/detrimental effects on the ecosystem health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Carere
- Italian Institute of Health, Department: Environment and Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy.
| | - Antonio Antoccia
- Department of Science, University "Roma Tre", Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146, Roma, Italy
| | - Annamaria Buschini
- University of Parma, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, Parco Area Delle Scienze, 11/a, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Giada Frenzilli
- University of Pisa, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Applied Biology and Genetics, Via A. Volta 4, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Marcon
- Italian Institute of Health, Department: Environment and Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Andreoli
- Italian Institute of Health, Department: Environment and Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Gessica Gorbi
- University of Parma, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, Parco Area Delle Scienze, 11/a, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Antonio Suppa
- University of Parma, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, Parco Area Delle Scienze, 11/a, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Serena Montalbano
- University of Parma, Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, Parco Area Delle Scienze, 11/a, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Valentina Prota
- Italian Institute of Health, Department: Environment and Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca De Battistis
- Italian Institute of Health, Department: Environment and Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Guidi
- University of Pisa, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Applied Biology and Genetics, Via A. Volta 4, Pisa, Italy
| | - Margherita Bernardeschi
- University of Pisa, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Applied Biology and Genetics, Via A. Volta 4, Pisa, Italy
| | - Mara Palumbo
- University of Pisa, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Applied Biology and Genetics, Via A. Volta 4, Pisa, Italy
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- University of Pisa, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Applied Biology and Genetics, Via A. Volta 4, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Colasanti
- Department of Science, University "Roma Tre", Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146, Roma, Italy
| | - Veronica D'Ezio
- Department of Science, University "Roma Tre", Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146, Roma, Italy
| | - Tiziana Persichini
- Department of Science, University "Roma Tre", Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146, Roma, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Scalici
- Department of Science, University "Roma Tre", Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146, Roma, Italy
| | - Antonella Sgura
- Department of Science, University "Roma Tre", Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146, Roma, Italy
| | - Federica Spani
- Department of Science, University "Roma Tre", Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146, Roma, Italy
| | - Ion Udroiu
- Department of Science, University "Roma Tre", Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146, Roma, Italy
| | - Martina Valenzuela
- Department of Science, University "Roma Tre", Viale Guglielmo Marconi 446, I-00146, Roma, Italy
| | - Ines Lacchetti
- Italian Institute of Health, Department: Environment and Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Kevin di Domenico
- Italian Institute of Health, Department: Environment and Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Walter Cristiano
- Italian Institute of Health, Department: Environment and Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Marra
- Italian Institute of Health, Department: Environment and Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Ingelido
- Italian Institute of Health, Department: Environment and Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Iacovella
- Italian Institute of Health, Department: Environment and Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena De Felip
- Italian Institute of Health, Department: Environment and Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Massei
- UFZ - Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Department Bioanalytical Ecotoxicology, Permoserstr. 15, 04318, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Laura Mancini
- Italian Institute of Health, Department: Environment and Health, Viale Regina Elena 299, Rome, Italy
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Bernardeschi M, Guidi P, Palumbo M, Genovese M, Alfè M, Gargiulo V, Lucchesi P, Scarcelli V, Falleni A, Bergami E, Freyria FS, Bonelli B, Corsi I, Frenzilli G. Suitability of Nanoparticles to Face Benzo(a)pyrene-Induced Genetic and Chromosomal Damage in M. galloprovincialis. An In Vitro Approach. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2021; 11:1309. [PMID: 34063431 PMCID: PMC8155950 DOI: 10.3390/nano11051309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Benzo(a)pyrene (B(a)P) is a well-known genotoxic agent, the removal of which from environmental matrices is mandatory, necessitating the application of cleaning strategies that are harmless to human and environmental health. The potential application of nanoparticles (NPs) in the remediation of polluted environments is of increasing interest. Here, specifically designed NPs were selected as being non-genotoxic and able to interact with B(a)P, in order to address the genetic and chromosomal damage it produces. A newly formulated pure anatase nano-titanium (nano-TiO2), a commercial mixture of rutile and anatase, and carbon black-derived hydrophilic NPs (HNP) were applied. Once it had been ascertained that the NPs selected for the work did not induce genotoxicity, marine mussel gill biopsies were exposed in vitro to B(a)P (2 μg/mL), alone and in combination with the selected NPs (50 µg/mL nano-TiO2, 10 µg/mL HNP). DNA primary reversible damage was evaluated by means of the Comet assay. Chromosomal persistent damage was assessed on the basis of micronuclei frequency and nuclear abnormalities by means of the Micronucleus-Cytome assay. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) was performed to investigate the mechanism of action exerted by NPs. Pure Anatase n-TiO2 was found to be the most suitable for our purpose, as it is cyto- and genotoxicity free and able to reduce the genetic and chromosomal damage associated with exposure to B(a)P.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Bernardeschi
- Section of Applied Biology and Genetics and INSTM Local Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (P.G.); (M.P.); (P.L.); (V.S.); (A.F.)
| | - Patrizia Guidi
- Section of Applied Biology and Genetics and INSTM Local Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (P.G.); (M.P.); (P.L.); (V.S.); (A.F.)
| | - Mara Palumbo
- Section of Applied Biology and Genetics and INSTM Local Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (P.G.); (M.P.); (P.L.); (V.S.); (A.F.)
| | - Massimo Genovese
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”, University of Florence, 50121 Florence, Italy;
| | - Michela Alfè
- Institute of Science and Technology for Sustainable Energy and Mobility STEMS-CNR, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.A.); (V.G.)
| | - Valentina Gargiulo
- Institute of Science and Technology for Sustainable Energy and Mobility STEMS-CNR, 80126 Naples, Italy; (M.A.); (V.G.)
| | - Paolo Lucchesi
- Section of Applied Biology and Genetics and INSTM Local Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (P.G.); (M.P.); (P.L.); (V.S.); (A.F.)
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Section of Applied Biology and Genetics and INSTM Local Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (P.G.); (M.P.); (P.L.); (V.S.); (A.F.)
| | - Alessandra Falleni
- Section of Applied Biology and Genetics and INSTM Local Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (P.G.); (M.P.); (P.L.); (V.S.); (A.F.)
| | - Elisa Bergami
- Earth and Environmental Sciences and INSTM Local Unit, Department of Physical, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (E.B.); (I.C.)
| | - Francesca S. Freyria
- INSTM Unit of Torino-Politecnico, Department of Applied Science and Technology, 10129 Politecnico di Torino, Italy; (F.S.F.); (B.B.)
| | - Barbara Bonelli
- INSTM Unit of Torino-Politecnico, Department of Applied Science and Technology, 10129 Politecnico di Torino, Italy; (F.S.F.); (B.B.)
| | - Ilaria Corsi
- Earth and Environmental Sciences and INSTM Local Unit, Department of Physical, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (E.B.); (I.C.)
| | - Giada Frenzilli
- Section of Applied Biology and Genetics and INSTM Local Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (M.B.); (P.G.); (M.P.); (P.L.); (V.S.); (A.F.)
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4
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Frenzilli G, Martorell-Ribera J, Bernardeschi M, Scarcelli V, Jönsson E, Diano N, Moggio M, Guidi P, Sturve J, Asker N. Bisphenol A and Bisphenol S Induce Endocrine and Chromosomal Alterations in Brown Trout. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:645519. [PMID: 33776939 PMCID: PMC7992001 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.645519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Bisphenol A is a widely used compound found in large amount of consumer products. As concerns have been raised about its toxicological and public health effect, the use of alternatives to bisphenol A are now increasing. Bisphenol S is one of the analogues being used as a replacement for bisphenol A despite the fact that little is known about the effects of bisphenol S on living organisms. In this study, we investigated the potential endocrine and genotoxic effects of bisphenol A and bisphenol S in juvenile brown trout (Salmo trutta). The fish were exposed to the compounds for either 2 weeks or 8 weeks via sustained-release cholesterol implants containing doses of 2 mg/kg fish or 20 mg/kg fish of the substances. The effects on the thyroid hormone levels and the estrogenic disrupting marker vitellogenin were evaluated, along with the genotoxic markers micronucleated cells and erythrocyte nuclear abnormalities. An increase in plasma vitellogenin was observed in fish exposed to the high dose of bisphenol A for 2 weeks. At this experimental time the level of the thyroid hormone triiodothyronine (T3) in plasma was elevated after bisphenol S exposure at the high concentration, and paralleled by an increase of micronucleated cells. Moreover, bisphenol A induced an increase of micronuclei frequency in fish erythrocytes after the exposure at the lowest dose tested. Taken together the results indicate that both bisphenol A and its alternative bisphenol S cause endocrine disrupting and genotoxic effects in brown trout, although suggesting two different mechanisms of damage underlying bisphenol A and bisphenol S activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Frenzilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giada Frenzilli,
| | - Joan Martorell-Ribera
- Institute for Genome Biology, Fish Genetics Unit, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Margherita Bernardeschi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisabeth Jönsson
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Nadia Diano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Martina Moggio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Patrizia Guidi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Unit of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Joachim Sturve
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Noomi Asker
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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5
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Liberatori G, Grassi G, Guidi P, Bernardeschi M, Fiorati A, Scarcelli V, Genovese M, Faleri C, Protano G, Frenzilli G, Punta C, Corsi I. Effect-Based Approach to Assess Nanostructured Cellulose Sponge Removal Efficacy of Zinc Ions from Seawater to Prevent Ecological Risks. Nanomaterials (Basel) 2020; 10:E1283. [PMID: 32629917 PMCID: PMC7407410 DOI: 10.3390/nano10071283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
To encourage the applicability of nano-adsorbent materials for heavy metal ion removal from seawater and limit any potential side effects for marine organisms, an ecotoxicological evaluation based on a biological effect-based approach is presented. ZnCl2 (10 mg L-1) contaminated artificial seawater (ASW) was treated with newly developed eco-friendly cellulose-based nanosponges (CNS) (1.25 g L-1 for 2 h), and the cellular and tissue responses of marine mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis were measured before and after CNS treatment. A control group (ASW only) and a negative control group (CNS in ASW) were also tested. Methods: A significant recovery of Zn-induced damages in circulating immune and gill cells and mantle edges was observed in mussels exposed after CNS treatment. Genetic and chromosomal damages reversed to control levels in mussels' gill cells (DNA integrity level, nuclear abnormalities and apoptotic cells) and hemocytes (micronuclei), in which a recovery of lysosomal membrane stability (LMS) was also observed. Damage to syphons, loss of cilia by mantle edge epithelial cells and an increase in mucous cells in ZnCl2-exposed mussels were absent in specimens after CNS treatment, in which the mantle histology resembled that of the controls. No effects were observed in mussels exposed to CNS alone. As further proof of CNS' ability to remove Zn(II) from ASW, a significant reduction of >90% of Zn levels in ASW after CNS treatment was observed (from 6.006 to 0.510 mg L-1). Ecotoxicological evaluation confirmed the ability of CNS to remove Zn from ASW by showing a full recovery of Zn-induced toxicological responses to the levels of mussels exposed to ASW only (controls). An effect-based approach was thus proven to be useful in order to further support the environmentally safe (ecosafety) application of CNS for heavy metal removal from seawater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Liberatori
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences and INSTM Local Unit, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.L.); (G.G.); (G.P.)
| | - Giacomo Grassi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences and INSTM Local Unit, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.L.); (G.G.); (G.P.)
| | - Patrizia Guidi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine-Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.G.); (M.B.); (V.S.); (M.G.)
| | - Margherita Bernardeschi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine-Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.G.); (M.B.); (V.S.); (M.G.)
| | - Andrea Fiorati
- Department of Chemistry, Materials, and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta” and INSTM Local Unit, Politecnico di Milano, 20131 Milano, Italy; (A.F.); (C.P.)
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine-Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.G.); (M.B.); (V.S.); (M.G.)
| | - Massimo Genovese
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine-Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.G.); (M.B.); (V.S.); (M.G.)
| | - Claudia Faleri
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Protano
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences and INSTM Local Unit, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.L.); (G.G.); (G.P.)
| | - Giada Frenzilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine-Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (P.G.); (M.B.); (V.S.); (M.G.)
| | - Carlo Punta
- Department of Chemistry, Materials, and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta” and INSTM Local Unit, Politecnico di Milano, 20131 Milano, Italy; (A.F.); (C.P.)
| | - Ilaria Corsi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences and INSTM Local Unit, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.L.); (G.G.); (G.P.)
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6
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Ferrari SM, Antonelli A, Guidi P, Bernardeschi M, Scarcelli V, Fallahi P, Frenzilli G. Genotoxicity Evaluation of the Soybean Isoflavone Genistein in Human Papillary Thyroid Cancer Cells. Study of Its Potential Use in Thyroid Cancer Therapy. Nutr Cancer 2019; 71:1335-1344. [PMID: 31017483 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2019.1604004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Genistein is one of the several known isoflavonic phytoestrogens found in a number of plants, with soybeans and soy products being the primary food source. The aim of the study is to evaluate if genistein is able to exert antineoplastic action in primary human papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) cells. Thyroid tissues were treated with genistein (1-10-50-100 µM). Cell viability, proliferation, DNA primary damage and chromosomal damage were evaluated. An antiproliferative effect was induced by the highest doses of genistein, and such an effect was synergistically enhanced by the cotreatment with the antineoplastic drug sorafenib. Comet assay did not show any genotoxic effect in terms of primary DNA damage at all the times (4 and 24 h) and tested doses. A reduction of hydrogen peroxide-induced DNA primary damage in primary thyrocytes from PTC cells pretreated with genistein was observed. Data suggest that genistein exerts antineoplastic action, does not induce genotoxic effects while reduces oxidative-induced DNA damage in primary thyrocytes from PTC cells, supporting its possible use in therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Ferrari
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Internal Medicine, University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
| | - A Antonelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Internal Medicine, University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
| | - P Guidi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
| | - M Bernardeschi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
| | - V Scarcelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
| | - P Fallahi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Internal Medicine, University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
| | - G Frenzilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
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7
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Guidi P, Corsolini S, Bernardeschi M, Rocco L, Nigro M, Baroni D, Mottola F, Scarcelli V, Santonastaso M, Falleni A, Della Torre C, Corsi I, Pozo K, Frenzilli G. Dioxin-like compounds bioavailability and genotoxicity assessment in the Gulf of Follonica, Tuscany (Northern Tyrrhenian Sea). Mar Pollut Bull 2018; 126:467-472. [PMID: 29421127 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.11.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 07/25/2017] [Revised: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The Gulf of Follonica (Italy) is impacted by the chemical pollution from ancient mining activity and present industrial processes. This study was aimed to determine the bioavailability of dioxin-like compounds (DLCs) in coastal marine environment and to assess the genotoxic potential of waste waters entering the sea from an industrial canal. Moderately high levels of DCLs compounds (∑ PCDDs + PCDFs 2.18–29.00 pg/g dry wt) were detected in Mytilus galloprovincialis transplanted near the waste waters canal and their corresponding Toxic Equivalents (TEQs) calculated. In situ exposed mussels did not show any genotoxic effect (by Comet and Micronucleus assay). Otherwise, laboratory exposure to canal waters exhibited a reduced genomic template stability (by RAPD-PCR assay) but not DNA or chromosomal damage. Our data reveal the need to focus on the levels and distribution of DLCs in edible species from the study area considering their potential transfer to humans through the consumption of sea food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Guidi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Simonetta Corsolini
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Margherita Bernardeschi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Lucia Rocco
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical, Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - Marco Nigro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Davide Baroni
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Filomena Mottola
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical, Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marianna Santonastaso
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical, Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Falleni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Camilla Della Torre
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Corsi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Karla Pozo
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; Masaryk University, Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment, Brno, Czech Republic; Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Católica Santísima Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Giada Frenzilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine - Section of Applied Biology and Genetics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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8
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Frenzilli G, Ryskalin L, Ferrucci M, Cantafora E, Chelazzi S, Giorgi FS, Lenzi P, Scarcelli V, Frati A, Biagioni F, Gambardella S, Falleni A, Fornai F. Loud Noise Exposure Produces DNA, Neurotransmitter and Morphological Damage within Specific Brain Areas. Front Neuroanat 2017; 11:49. [PMID: 28694773 PMCID: PMC5483448 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2017.00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to loud noise is a major environmental threat to public health. Loud noise exposure, apart from affecting the inner ear, is deleterious for cardiovascular, endocrine and nervous systems and it is associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. In this study we investigated DNA, neurotransmitters and immune-histochemical alterations induced by exposure to loud noise in three major brain areas (cerebellum, hippocampus, striatum) of Wistar rats. Rats were exposed to loud noise (100 dBA) for 12 h. The effects of noise on DNA integrity in all three brain areas were evaluated by using Comet assay. In parallel studies, brain monoamine levels and morphology of nigrostriatal pathways, hippocampus and cerebellum were analyzed at different time intervals (24 h and 7 days) after noise exposure. Loud noise produced a sudden increase in DNA damage in all the brain areas under investigation. Monoamine levels detected at 7 days following exposure were differently affected depending on the specific brain area. Namely, striatal but not hippocampal dopamine (DA) significantly decreased, whereas hippocampal and cerebellar noradrenaline (NA) was significantly reduced. This is in line with pathological findings within striatum and hippocampus consisting of a decrease in striatal tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) combined with increased Bax and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Loud noise exposure lasting 12 h causes immediate DNA, and long-lasting neurotransmitter and immune-histochemical alterations within specific brain areas of the rat. These alterations may suggest an anatomical and functional link to explain the neurobiology of diseases which prevail in human subjects exposed to environmental noise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Frenzilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - Larisa Ryskalin
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - Michela Ferrucci
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - Emanuela Cantafora
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - Silvia Chelazzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - Filippo S Giorgi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - Paola Lenzi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Frati
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico IRCCS NeuromedIsernia, Italy
| | - Francesca Biagioni
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico IRCCS NeuromedIsernia, Italy
| | - Stefano Gambardella
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico IRCCS NeuromedIsernia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Falleni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of PisaPisa, Italy
| | - Francesco Fornai
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of PisaPisa, Italy.,Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico IRCCS NeuromedIsernia, Italy
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9
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Nigro M, Bernardeschi M, Costagliola D, Della Torre C, Frenzilli G, Guidi P, Lucchesi P, Mottola F, Santonastaso M, Scarcelli V, Monaci F, Corsi I, Stingo V, Rocco L. n-TiO2 and CdCl2 co-exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles and cadmium: Genomic, DNA and chromosomal damage evaluation in the marine fish European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Aquat Toxicol 2015; 168:72-77. [PMID: 26448269 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2015.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [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: 04/15/2015] [Revised: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Due to the large production and growing use of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (n-TiO2), their release in the marine environment and their potential interaction with existing toxic contaminants represent a growing concern for biota. Different end-points of genotoxicity were investigated in the European sea bass Dicentrarchus labrax exposed to n-TiO2 (1mgL(-1)) either alone and combined with CdCl2 (0.1mgL(-1)) for 7 days. DNA primary damage (comet assay), apoptotic cells (diffusion assay), occurrence of micronuclei and nuclear abnormalities (cytome assay) were assessed in peripheral erythrocytes and genomic stability (random amplified polymorphism DNA-PCR, RAPD assay) in muscle tissue. Results showed that genome template stability was reduced after CdCl2 and n-TiO2 exposure. Exposure to n-TiO2 alone was responsible for chromosomal alteration but ineffective in terms of DNA damage; while the opposite was observed in CdCl2 exposed specimens. Co-exposure apparently prevents the chromosomal damage and leads to a partial recovery of the genome template stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Nigro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Bernardeschi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - D Costagliola
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - C Della Torre
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - G Frenzilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy.
| | - P Guidi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - P Lucchesi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Mottola
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - M Santonastaso
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - V Scarcelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Monaci
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - I Corsi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - V Stingo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - L Rocco
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
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10
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Della Torre C, Balbi T, Grassi G, Frenzilli G, Bernardeschi M, Smerilli A, Guidi P, Canesi L, Nigro M, Monaci F, Scarcelli V, Rocco L, Focardi S, Monopoli M, Corsi I. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles modulate the toxicological response to cadmium in the gills of Mytilus galloprovincialis. J Hazard Mater 2015; 297:92-100. [PMID: 25956639 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2015.04.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [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: 02/24/2015] [Revised: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2015] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the influence of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO2) on the response to cadmium in the gills of the marine mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis in terms of accumulation and toxicity. Mussels were in vivo exposed to nano-TiO2, CdCl2, alone and in combination. Several cellular biomarkers were investigated in gills: ABC transport proteins and metallothioneins at gene/protein (abcb1, abcc-like and mt-20) and functional level, GST activity, NO production and DNA damage (Comet assay). Accumulation of total Cd and titanium in gills as in whole soft tissue was also investigated. Significant responses to Cd exposure were observed in mussel gills as up-regulation of abcb1 and mt-20 gene transcription, increases in total MT content, P-gp efflux and GST activity, DNA damage and NO production. Nano-TiO2 alone increased P-gp efflux activity and NO production. When combined with Cd, nano-TiO2 reduced the metal-induced effects by significantly lowering abcb1 gene transcription, GST activity, and DNA damage, whereas, additive effects were observed on NO production. A lower concentration of Cd was observed in the gills upon co-exposure, whereas, Ti levels were unaffected. A competitive effect in uptake/accumulation of nano-TiO2 and Cd seems to occur in gills. A confirmation is given by the observed absence of adsorption of Cd onto nano-TiO2 in sea water media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Della Torre
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Teresa Balbi
- Department of Earth, Environmental and Life Sciences-DISTAV, University of Genoa, Italy
| | - Giacomo Grassi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Giada Frenzilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Arianna Smerilli
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Seconda Università di Napoli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Patrizia Guidi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Canesi
- Department of Earth, Environmental and Life Sciences-DISTAV, University of Genoa, Italy
| | - Marco Nigro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Monaci
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Lucia Rocco
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (DiSTABiF), Seconda Università di Napoli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Silvano Focardi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Monopoli
- Centre for BioNanoInteractions, School of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, University College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ilaria Corsi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Italy.
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11
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Rocco L, Santonastaso M, Nigro M, Mottola F, Costagliola D, Bernardeschi M, Guidi P, Lucchesi P, Scarcelli V, Corsi I, Stingo V, Frenzilli G. Genomic and chromosomal damage in the marine mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis: Effects of the combined exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles and cadmium chloride. Mar Environ Res 2015; 111:144-148. [PMID: 26392349 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2015.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [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: 04/27/2015] [Revised: 08/31/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2-NPs) continuously released into waters, may cause harmful effects to marine organisms and their potential interaction with conventional toxic contaminants represents a growing concern for biota. We investigated the genotoxic potential of nanosized titanium dioxide (n-TiO2) (100 μg L(-1)) alone and in combination with CdCl2 (100 μg L(-1)) in Mytilus galloprovincialis after 4 days of in vivo exposure. RAPD-PCR technique and Micronucleus test were used to study genotoxicity. The results showed genome template stability (GTS) being markedly reduced after single exposure to n-TiO2 and CdCl2. Otherwise, co-exposure resulted in a milder reduction of GTS. Exposure to n-TiO2 was responsible for a significant increase of micronucleated cell frequency in gill tissue, while no chromosomal damage was observed after CdCl2 exposure as well as after combined exposure to both substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Rocco
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy.
| | - M Santonastaso
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - M Nigro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - F Mottola
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - D Costagliola
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - M Bernardeschi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - P Guidi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - P Lucchesi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - V Scarcelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
| | - I Corsi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - V Stingo
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, Second University of Naples, Caserta, Italy
| | - G Frenzilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Pisa University, Pisa, Italy
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12
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Guidi P, Nigro M, Bernardeschi M, Lucchesi P, Scarcelli V, Frenzilli G. Does the crystal habit modulate the genotoxic potential of silica particles? A cytogenetic evaluation in human and murine cell lines. Mutat Res Genet Toxicol Environ Mutagen 2015; 792:46-52. [PMID: 26433261 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2015.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2015] [Revised: 07/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Crystalline silica inhaled from occupational sources has been classified by IARC as carcinogenic to humans; in contrast, for amorphous silica, epidemiological and experimental evidence remains insufficient. The genotoxicity of crystalline silica is still debated because of the inconsistency of experimental results ("variability of silica hazard"), often related to the features of the particle surfaces. We have assessed the role of crystal habit in the genotoxicity of silica powders. Pure quartz (crystalline) and vitreous silica (amorphous), sharing the same surface features, were used in an in vitro study with human pulmonary epithelial (A549) and murine macrophage (RAW264.7) cell lines, representative of occupational and environmental exposures. Genotoxicity was evaluated by the comet and micronucleus assays, and cytotoxicity by the trypan blue method. Cells were treated with silica powders for 4 and 24h. Quartz but not vitreous silica caused cell death and DNA damage in RAW264.7 cells. A549 cells were relatively resistant to both powders. Our results support the view that crystal habit per se plays a pivotal role in modulating the biological responses to silica particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Guidi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Volta 4, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - M Nigro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Volta 4, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - M Bernardeschi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Volta 4, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - P Lucchesi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Volta 4, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - V Scarcelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Volta 4, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - G Frenzilli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Volta 4, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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13
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Asker N, Carney Almroth B, Albertsson E, Coltellaro M, Bignell JP, Hanson N, Scarcelli V, Fagerholm B, Parkkonen J, Wijkmark E, Frenzilli G, Förlin L, Sturve J. A gene to organism approach--assessing the impact of environmental pollution in eelpout (Zoarces viviparus) females and larvae. Environ Toxicol Chem 2015; 34:1511-1523. [PMID: 25663503 PMCID: PMC5008212 DOI: 10.1002/etc.2921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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: 09/17/2014] [Revised: 10/26/2014] [Accepted: 02/01/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
A broad biomarker approach was applied to study the effects of marine pollution along the Swedish west coast using the teleost eelpout (Zoarces viviparus) as the sentinel species. Measurements were performed on different biological levels, from the molecular to the organismal, including measurements of messenger RNA (mRNA), proteins, cellular and tissue changes, and reproductive success. Results revealed that eelpout captured in Stenungsund had significantly higher hepatic ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase activity, high levels of both cytochrome P4501A and diablo homolog mRNA, and high prevalence of dead larvae and nuclear damage in erythrocytes. Eelpout collected in Göteborg harbor displayed extensive macrovesicular steatosis, whereby the majority of hepatocytes were affected throughout the liver, which could indicate an effect on lipid metabolism. Results also indicate that eelpouts collected at polluted sites might have an affected immune system, with lower mRNA expression of genes involved in the innate immune system and a higher number of lymphocytes. Biomarker assessment also was performed on livers dissected from unborn eelpout larvae collected from the ovary of the females. No significant differences were noted, which might indicate that the larvae to some extent are protected from effects of environmental pollutants. In conclusion, usage of the selected set of biological markers, covering responses from gene to organism, has demonstrated site-specific biomarker patterns that provided a broad and comprehensive picture of the impact of environmental stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noomi Asker
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Bethanie Carney Almroth
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Eva Albertsson
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - John Paul Bignell
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, Weymouth, Dorset, United Kingdom
| | - Niklas Hanson
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Department of Clinic and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Björn Fagerholm
- Department of Aquatic Resources, Institute of Coastal Research, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Väröbacka, Sweden
| | - Jari Parkkonen
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Emma Wijkmark
- Department of Mathematical Statistics, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Giada Frenzilli
- Department of Clinic and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Lars Förlin
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Joachim Sturve
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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14
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Torre CD, Buonocore F, Frenzilli G, Corsolini S, Brunelli A, Guidi P, Kocan A, Mariottini M, Mottola F, Nigro M, Pozo K, Randelli E, Vannuccini ML, Picchietti S, Santonastaso M, Scarcelli V, Focardi S, Marcomini A, Rocco L, Scapigliati G, Corsi I. Influence of titanium dioxide nanoparticles on 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin bioconcentration and toxicity in the marine fish European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Environ Pollut 2015; 196:185-193. [PMID: 25463713 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2014.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Revised: 09/24/2014] [Accepted: 09/26/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated the influence of nano-TiO(2) (1 mg L(-1)) on 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin(2,3,7,8-TCDD) (46 pg L(-1)) bioconcentration and toxicity in the European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) during 7 days in vivo exposure. A multimarkers approach was applied in different organs: detoxification in liver; innate immunity and pro-inflammatory response and adaptive immunity in gills and spleen; genotoxicity in peripheral erythrocytes and muscle. Bioconcentration of 2,3,7,8-TCDD in presence of nano-TiO2 was investigated in liver, skin and muscle as well as interaction between nano-TiO2 and organic pollutants in artificial sea water (ASW). Nano-TiO2 negatively influenced immune response induced by 2,3,7,8-TCDD in spleen but not in gills and reduced the DNA damage induced by 2,3,7,8-TCDD in erythrocytes. nano-TiO2 did not interfere with 2,3,7,8-TCDD detoxification and bioconcentration according to the observed no interaction of the nano-TiO2 with organic pollutants in ASW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Della Torre
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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15
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Frenzilli G, Bernardeschi M, Guidi P, Scarcelli V, Lucchesi P, Marsili L, Fossi MC, Brunelli A, Pojana G, Marcomini A, Nigro M. Effects of in vitro exposure to titanium dioxide on DNA integrity of bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) fibroblasts and leukocytes. Mar Environ Res 2014; 100:68-73. [PMID: 24484603 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2014.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [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: 11/05/2013] [Revised: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 01/09/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, the genotoxic potential of nanosized TiO2 anatase and micro-sized rutile on bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) fibroblasts and leukocytes was investigated. Human and mouse cells were also studied in order to compare susceptibility to TiO2 in different mammalian species. Cell lines were exposed for 4, 24, and 48 h to different concentrations of TiO2 (20, 50, 100, 150 μg/ml) and DNA damage was investigated by single cell gel electrophoresis (Comet assay). Both anatase and rutile induced increased DNA damage, even though statistically significant effects were scattered according to species and cell lines. Bottlenose dolphin leukocytes and murine fibroblasts exhibited increased DNA damage after rutile exposure at some doses/times, while human fibroblasts showed a significant dose-response effect after a 4 h exposure to anatase. Human leukocytes were tolerant to both anatase and rutile. Ultrastructural investigation showed that TiO2 particles entered the cell and were compartmentalized within membrane-bound vesicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Frenzilli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, sezione di Biologia applicata e genetica, Via A. Volta, 4-56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Margherita Bernardeschi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, sezione di Biologia applicata e genetica, Via A. Volta, 4-56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Patrizia Guidi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, sezione di Biologia applicata e genetica, Via A. Volta, 4-56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, sezione di Biologia applicata e genetica, Via A. Volta, 4-56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Paolo Lucchesi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, sezione di Biologia applicata e genetica, Via A. Volta, 4-56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Letizia Marsili
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Università di Siena, Via Mattioli, 4-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Fossi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Università di Siena, Via Mattioli, 4-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Andrea Brunelli
- DAIS-Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatiche e Statistiche, Università Ca' Foscari, Calle Larga S. Marta 2137, 30123 Venice, Italy
| | - Giulio Pojana
- Dipartimento di Filosofia e Beni Culturali, Università Ca' Foscari, Dorsoduro 3484/D, 30123 Venice, Italy
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- DAIS-Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatiche e Statistiche, Università Ca' Foscari, Calle Larga S. Marta 2137, 30123 Venice, Italy
| | - Marco Nigro
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, sezione di Biologia applicata e genetica, Via A. Volta, 4-56126 Pisa, Italy.
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16
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Canesi L, Frenzilli G, Balbi T, Bernardeschi M, Ciacci C, Corsolini S, Della Torre C, Fabbri R, Faleri C, Focardi S, Guidi P, Kočan A, Marcomini A, Mariottini M, Nigro M, Pozo-Gallardo K, Rocco L, Scarcelli V, Smerilli A, Corsi I. Interactive effects of n-TiO2 and 2,3,7,8-TCDD on the marine bivalve Mytilus galloprovincialis. Aquat Toxicol 2014; 153:53-65. [PMID: 24342350 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2013.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [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: 06/28/2013] [Revised: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 11/02/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Despite the growing concern over the potential biological impact of nanoparticles (NPs) in the aquatic environment, little is known about their interactions with other pollutants. The bivalve Mytilus sp, largely utilized as a sentinel for marine contamination, has been shown to represent a significant target for different types of NP, including n-TiO2, one of the most widespread in use. In this work, the possible interactive effects of n-TiO2 and 2,3,7,8-TCDD, chosen as models of NP and organic contaminant, respectively, were investigated in Mytilus galloprovincialis. In vitro experiments with n-TiO2 and TCDD, alone and in combination, were carried out in different conditions (concentrations and times of exposure), depending on the target (hemocytes, gill cells and biopsies) and the endpoint measured. Mussels were also exposed in vivo to n-TiO2 (100 μg L(-1)) or to TCDD (0.25 μg L(-1)), alone and in combination, for 96 h. A wide range of biomarkers, from molecular to tissue level, were measured: lysosomal membrane stability and phagocytosis in hemocytes, ATP-binding cassette efflux transporters in gills (gene transcription and efflux activity), several biomarkers of genotoxicity in gill and digestive cells (DNA damage, random amplified polymorphic DNA-RAPD changes), lysosomal biomarkers and transcription of selected genes in the digestive gland. The results demonstrate that n-TiO2 and TCDD can exert synergistic or antagonistic effects, depending on experimental condition, cell/tissue and type of measured response. Some of these interactions may result from a significant increase in TCDD accumulation in whole mussel organisms in the presence of n-TiO2, indicating a Trojan horse effect. The results represent the most extensive data obtained so far on the sub-lethal effects of NPs and organic contaminants in aquatic organisms. Moreover, these data extend the knowledge on the molecular and cellular targets of NPs in bivalves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Canesi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, dell'Ambiente e della Vita, DISTAV, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Giada Frenzilli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Teresa Balbi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, dell'Ambiente e della Vita, DISTAV, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Caterina Ciacci
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, della Vita e dell'Ambiente-DiSTeVA, Università "Carlo Bo" di Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | - Simonetta Corsolini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche, della Terra e dell'Ambiente, Università di Siena, via Mattioli 4, Siena, Italy
| | - Camilla Della Torre
- Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche, della Terra e dell'Ambiente, Università di Siena, via Mattioli 4, Siena, Italy
| | - Rita Fabbri
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, dell'Ambiente e della Vita, DISTAV, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Claudia Faleri
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Università di Siena, via Mattioli 4, Siena, Italy
| | - Silvano Focardi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche, della Terra e dell'Ambiente, Università di Siena, via Mattioli 4, Siena, Italy
| | - Patrizia Guidi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Anton Kočan
- Research Center for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (Recetox), Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Antonio Marcomini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Informatica e Statistica, Università "Ca' Foscari" di Venezia, Venezia, Italy
| | - Michela Mariottini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche, della Terra e dell'Ambiente, Università di Siena, via Mattioli 4, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Nigro
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Karla Pozo-Gallardo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche, della Terra e dell'Ambiente, Università di Siena, via Mattioli 4, Siena, Italy; Research Center for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (Recetox), Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Lucia Rocco
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche (DiSTABiF), Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Vivaldi 43, Caserta, Italy
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Arianna Smerilli
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, dell'Ambiente e della Vita, DISTAV, Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Ilaria Corsi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche, della Terra e dell'Ambiente, Università di Siena, via Mattioli 4, Siena, Italy
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Rotoli BM, Guidi P, Bonelli B, Bernardeschi M, Bianchi MG, Esposito S, Frenzilli G, Lucchesi P, Nigro M, Scarcelli V, Tomatis M, Zanello PP, Fubini B, Bussolati O, Bergamaschi E. Imogolite: An Aluminosilicate Nanotube Endowed with Low Cytotoxicity and Genotoxicity. Chem Res Toxicol 2014; 27:1142-54. [DOI: 10.1021/tx500002d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrizia Guidi
- Department
of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Barbara Bonelli
- Department
of Applied Science and Technology and INSTM, Unit of Torino Politecnico, Politecnico di Torino, 10129 Turin, Italy
| | | | | | - Serena Esposito
- Department
of Civil and Mechanical Engineering, University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, 03043 Cassino, Italy
| | - Giada Frenzilli
- Department
of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Paolo Lucchesi
- Department
of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Nigro
- Department
of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Department
of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Maura Tomatis
- Department
of Chemistry and “G. Scansetti” Interdepartmental Center
for Studies on Asbestos and Other Toxic Particulates, University of Torino, 10125 Turin, Italy
| | | | - Bice Fubini
- Department
of Chemistry and “G. Scansetti” Interdepartmental Center
for Studies on Asbestos and Other Toxic Particulates, University of Torino, 10125 Turin, Italy
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18
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Regoli F, Pellegrini D, Cicero AM, Nigro M, Benedetti M, Gorbi S, Fattorini D, D'Errico G, Di Carlo M, Nardi A, Gaion A, Scuderi A, Giuliani S, Romanelli G, Berto D, Trabucco B, Guidi P, Bernardeschi M, Scarcelli V, Frenzilli G. A multidisciplinary weight of evidence approach for environmental risk assessment at the Costa Concordia wreck: Integrative indices from Mussel Watch. Mar Environ Res 2014; 96:92-104. [PMID: 24144855 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2013.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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: 07/31/2013] [Revised: 09/18/2013] [Accepted: 09/21/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
A complex framework of chemical, biological and oceanographic activities was immediately activated after the Costa Concordia shipwreck, to assess possible contamination events and the environmental impact during both emergency and wreck removal operations. In the present paper, we describe the results obtained with caged mussels, Mytilus galloprovincialis, chosen as bioindicator organisms to detect variations of bioavailability and the early onset of molecular and cellular effects (biomarkers). Seven translocation experiments were carried out during the first year from the incident, with organisms deployed at 2 depths in 3 different sites. After 4-6 weeks, tissue concentrations were measured for the main classes of potentially released chemicals (trace metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, volatile and aliphatic hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, halogenated pesticides, organotin compounds, brominated flame retardants, anionic surfactants); a wide battery of biomarkers covered responses indicative of exposure, detoxification, oxidative stress, cell damage and genotoxic effects. Results excluded serious contamination events or a consistent increase of environmental pollution although some episodic spills with reversible effects were detected. Data were elaborated within a quantitative weight of evidence (WOE) model which provided synthetic hazard indices for each typology of data, before their overall integration in an environmental risk index, which generally ranged from slight to moderate. The proposed WOE model was confirmed a useful tool to summarize large datasets of complex data in integrative indices, and to simplify the interpretation for stakeholders and decision makers, thus supporting a more comprehensive process of "site-oriented" management decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Regoli
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy.
| | - David Pellegrini
- ISPRA, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, Livorno, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Cicero
- ISPRA, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, Roma, Italy
| | - Marco Nigro
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Italy
| | - Maura Benedetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Stefania Gorbi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Daniele Fattorini
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giuseppe D'Errico
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Marta Di Carlo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Nardi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Andrea Gaion
- ISPRA, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, Livorno, Italy
| | - Alice Scuderi
- ISPRA, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, Livorno, Italy
| | - Silvia Giuliani
- ISPRA, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, Livorno, Italy
| | - Giulia Romanelli
- ISPRA, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, Roma, Italy
| | - Daniela Berto
- ISPRA, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, Chioggia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Trabucco
- ISPRA, Istituto Superiore per la Protezione e la Ricerca Ambientale, Roma, Italy
| | - Patrizia Guidi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Italy
| | - Giada Frenzilli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Università di Pisa, Italy
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19
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Guidi P, Nigro M, Bernardeschi M, Scarcelli V, Lucchesi P, Onida B, Mortera R, Frenzilli G. Genotoxicity of amorphous silica particles with different structure and dimension in human and murine cell lines. Mutagenesis 2013; 28:171-80. [PMID: 23325795 DOI: 10.1093/mutage/ges068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Although amorphous silica is used in food products, cosmetics and paints and as vector for drug delivery, data on its potential health hazard are limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of silica particles of different sizes (250 and 500nm) and structures (dense and mesoporous). Dense silica (DS) spheres were prepared by sol-gel synthesis, mesoporous silica particles (MCM-41) were prepared using hexadecyltrimethyl ammonium bromide as a structure-directing agent and tetraethylorthosilicate as silica source. Particles were accurately characterised by dynamic light scattering, nitrogen adsorption, X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Murine macrophages (RAW264.7) and human epithelial lung (A549) cell lines were selected for investigation. Genotoxicity was evaluated by Comet assay and micronucleus test. Cytotoxicity was tested by the trypan blue method. Cells were treated with 0, 5, 10, 20, 40 and 80 µg/cm(2) of different silica powders for 4 and 24 h. The intracellular localisation of silica was investigated by transmission electron microscopy. Amorphous particles penetrated into the cells, being compartmentalised within endocytic vacuoles. DS and MCM-41 particles induced cytotoxic and genotoxic effects in A549 and RAW264.7 although to different extent in the two cell lines. A549 were resistant in terms of cell viability, but showed a generalised induction of DNA strand breaks. RAW264.7 were susceptible to amorphous silica exposure, exhibiting both cytotoxic and genotoxic responses as DNA strand breaks and chromosomal alterations. The cytotoxic response of RAW264.7 was particularly relevant after MCM-41 exposure. The genotoxicity of amorphous silica highlights the need for a proper assessment of its potential hazard for human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Guidi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Unità di Biologia applicata e Genetica, Università di Pisa, Via A. Volta 4, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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20
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Guidi P, Frenzilli G, Benedetti M, Bernardeschi M, Falleni A, Fattorini D, Regoli F, Scarcelli V, Nigro M. Antioxidant, genotoxic and lysosomal biomarkers in the freshwater bivalve (Unio pictorum) transplanted in a metal polluted river basin. Aquat Toxicol 2010; 100:75-83. [PMID: 20674048 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2010.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2010] [Revised: 06/23/2010] [Accepted: 07/06/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The freshwater painter's mussel (Unio pictorum) was used as sentinel species to assess the chemical disturbance in an Italian river (the river Cecina) characterized by elevated levels of trace metals of both natural and anthropogenic origin. Organisms were transplanted for 4 weeks in different locations of the river basin and the bioaccumulation of metals was integrated with a wide battery of biomarkers consisting of oxidative, genotoxic and lysosomal responses. Such parameters included the levels of individual antioxidants (catalase, glutathione-S-transferases, glutathione reductase, Se-dependent and Se-independent glutathione peroxidases, total glutathione), the total oxyradical scavenging capacity (TOSC), metallothionein-like proteins, the assessment of DNA integrity, chromosomal damages and lysosomal membrane stability. Elevated levels of several metals were measured in sediments, but the relatively low tissue concentrations suggested a moderate bioaccumulation, possibly due to a high excretion efficiency, of U. pictorum and/or to a limited bioavailability of these elements, partly deriving from erosion of bedrocks. Among antioxidant responses, those based on glutathione metabolism and the activity of catalase were mostly affected in bivalves showing a significant accumulation of arsenic, mercury and/or nickel. In these specimens, the content of glutathione and the activities of glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidases (H2O2) were respectively 9-, 6- and 4-fold lower than in controls, while a 3-fold increase was observed for catalase. Despite some differences in the response of individual antioxidants, a significant reduction of the capability to neutralize peroxyl radicals was observed in bivalves caged in all the impacted sites of the river basin; these organisms also exhibited a significant impairment at the DNA, chromosomal and lysosomal levels. Considering the mild contamination gradient in the investigated area, the overall results suggested that some oxidative biomarkers, as well as those evaluating chromosomal and cell damages, are highly sensitive and could be profitably applied to caged painter's mussels for environmental quality assessment in freshwater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Guidi
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, sezione Biologia e Genetica, Università di Pisa, Via A. Volta 4, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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21
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Guidi P, Scarcelli V, Bernardeschi M, Lucchesi P, Nigro M, Frenzilli G. Potential genotoxic effects induced by different superficial morphologies and different dimensions of amorphous silica powders evaluated in murine alveolar macrophages (Raw 264.7) cell lines. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2010.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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22
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Bonuccelli L, Rossi L, Lena A, Scarcelli V, Rainaldi G, Evangelista M, Iacopetti P, Gremigni V, Salvetti A. An RbAp48-like gene regulates adult stem cells in planarians. J Cell Sci 2010; 123:690-8. [DOI: 10.1242/jcs.053900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinoblastoma-associated proteins 46 and 48 (RbAp46 and RbAp48) are factors that are components of different chromatin-modelling complexes, such as polycomb repressive complex 2, the activity of which is related to epigenetic gene regulation in stem cells. To date, no direct findings are available on the in vivo role of RbAp48 in stem-cell biology. We recently identified DjRbAp48 — a planarian (Dugesia japonica) homologue of human RBAP48 — expression of which is restricted to the neoblasts, the adult stem cells of planarians. In vivo silencing of DjRbAp48 induces lethality and inability to regenerate, even though neoblasts proliferate and accumulate after wounding. Despite a partial reduction in neoblast number, we were always able to detect a significant number of these cells in DjRbAp48 RNAi animals. Parallel to the decrease in neoblasts, a reduction in the number of differentiated cells and the presence of apoptotic-like neoblasts were detectable in RNAi animals. These findings suggest that DjRbAp48 is not involved in neoblast maintenance, but rather in the regulation of differentiation of stem-cell progeny. We discuss our data, taking into account the possibility that DjRbAp48 might control the expression of genes necessary for cell differentiation by influencing chromatin architecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Bonuccelli
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Leonardo Rossi
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Annalisa Lena
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Vittoria Scarcelli
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Rainaldi
- Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica, Laboratorio di Terapia Genica e Molecolare, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | - Monica Evangelista
- Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica, Laboratorio di Terapia Genica e Molecolare, CNR, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Iacopetti
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Vittorio Gremigni
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandra Salvetti
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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23
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Bernardeschi M, Guidi P, Scarcelli V, Frenzilli G, Nigro M. Genotoxic potential of TiO2 on bottlenose dolphin leukocytes. Anal Bioanal Chem 2009; 396:619-23. [PMID: 19915826 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-009-3261-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2009] [Revised: 10/17/2009] [Accepted: 10/21/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Titanium dioxide is extensively used in a variety of products, including industrial materials and cosmetics. Studies mainly performed on human cell lines and in vivo exposure on experimental animals have raised concern about the toxic effects of ultrafine titanium dioxide; however, scarce information is available about its impact on aquatic life. The aim of this article was to assess the genotoxic potential of TiO(2) (anatase and rutile) on bottlenose dolphin leukocytes. Blood samples were obtained from four male and one female specimens reared at the Adriatic SeaWorld "Oltremare" (Riccione, Italy). Leukocytes were isolated by the lyses procedure and in vitro exposed to TiO(2) in RPMI. Experimental solutions were sonicated immediately before dosing the cells. Three exposure times (4, 24 and 48 h) and three doses (20, 50 and 100 microg/ml) were tested. Genotoxicity was detected by the single-cell gel electrophoresis (or comet assay) at pH > or = 13, assessing single/double-strand breaks and alkali-labile sites. Cytotoxicity was also detected by the Trypan blue exclusion method. Results showed that both the crystalline forms of TiO(2) were genotoxic for bottlenose dolphin leukocytes, with a statistically significant increase of DNA fragmentation after exposure to 50 and 100 microg/ml for 24 and 48 h. Although preliminary, these are the first data regarding the genetic susceptibility of toothed cetaceans toward an "emerging" pollutant, such as TiO(2) particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Bernardeschi
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, University of Pisa, Via Volta 4, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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24
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Lena A, Rechichi M, Salvetti A, Bartoli B, Vecchio D, Scarcelli V, Amoroso R, Benvenuti L, Gagliardi R, Gremigni V, Rossi L. Drugs targeting the mitochondrial pore act as cytotoxic and cytostatic agents in temozolomide-resistant glioma cells. J Transl Med 2009; 7:13. [PMID: 19196452 PMCID: PMC2661321 DOI: 10.1186/1479-5876-7-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2008] [Accepted: 02/05/2009] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High grade gliomas are one of the most difficult cancers to treat and despite surgery, radiotherapy and temozolomide-based chemotherapy, the prognosis of glioma patients is poor. Resistance to temozolomide is the major barrier to effective therapy. Alternative therapeutic approaches have been shown to be ineffective for the treatment of genetically unselected glioma patients. Thus, novel therapies are needed. Mitochondria-directed chemotherapy is an emerging tool to combat cancer, and inner mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) represents a target for the development of cytotoxic drugs. A number of agents are able to induce MPT and some of them target MPT-pore (MPTP) components that are selectively up-regulated in cancer, making these agents putative cancer cell-specific drugs. OBJECTIVE The aim of this paper is to report a comprehensive analysis of the effects produced by selected MPT-inducing drugs (Betulinic Acid, Lonidamine, CD437) in a temozolomide-resistant glioblastoma cell line (ADF cells). METHODS EGFRvIII expression has been assayed by RT-PCR. EGFR amplification and PTEN deletion have been assayed by differential-PCR. Drugs effect on cell viability has been tested by crystal violet assay. MPT has been tested by JC1 staining. Drug cytostatic effect has been tested by mitotic index analysis. Drug cytotoxic effect has been tested by calcein AM staining. Apoptosis has been assayed by Hoechst incorporation and Annexine V binding assay. Authophagy has been tested by acridine orange staining. RESULTS We performed a molecular and genetic characterization of ADF cells and demonstrated that this line does not express the EGFRvIII and does not show EGFR amplification. ADF cells do not show PTEN mutation but differential PCR data indicate a hemizygous deletion of PTEN gene. We analyzed the response of ADF cells to Betulinic Acid, Lonidamine, and CD437. Our data demonstrate that MPT-inducing agents produce concentration-dependent cytostatic and cytotoxic effects in parallel with MPT induction triggered through MPTP. CD437, Lonidamine and Betulinic acid trigger apoptosis as principal death modality. CONCLUSION The obtained data suggest that these pharmacological agents could be selected as adjuvant drugs for the treatment of high grade astrocytomas that resist conventional therapies or that do not show any peculiar genetic alteration that can be targeted by specific drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Lena
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, University of Pisa, Via Volta 4, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
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25
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Frenzilli G, Falleni A, Scarcelli V, Del Barga I, Pellegrini S, Savarino G, Mariotti V, Benedetti M, Fattorini D, Regoli F, Nigro M. Cellular responses in the cyprinid Leuciscus cephalus from a contaminated freshwater ecosystem. Aquat Toxicol 2008; 89:188-196. [PMID: 18691772 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2008.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2008] [Revised: 06/23/2008] [Accepted: 06/25/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The response of wild chubs (Leuciscus cephalus) to chemical pollution was assessed in a metal contaminated river (Cecina River, Italy) through a wide battery of biomarkers which included: Comet assay detecting DNA strand breaks; diffusion assay for apoptosis induction; micronucleus test assessing chromosomal alterations; ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) activity for the induction of cytochrome P 4501A; acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity responsive to pesticide exposure; vitellogenin gene expression in males revealing estrogenic effects. Bioaccumulation of mercury, chromium and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was also determined. Levels of mercury and PAHs were higher in tissues of chubs sampled from the most downstream station, reflecting an anthropogenic pollution of industrial origin. Otherwise, accumulation of Cr was quite similar in fish along the entire course of Cecina River confirming a natural origin due to local geochemical features. Biomarker responses revealed a significant increase of apoptotic cells, DNA stand breaks and micronucleus frequency in chubs from the more impacted sites. A slight EROD induction and AChE inhibition were only seen at the most downstream station demonstrating a limited impact due to PAHs and pesticides. On the other hand, the induction of vitellogenin gene in male chubs was measured in all the sites, suggesting a diffuse estrogenic effect. This study confirmed the utility of large batteries of biomarkers in biomonitoring studies and the suitability of wild chub as bioindicator organism for river basins.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Frenzilli
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, Sezione di Biologia e Genetica, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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Frenzilli G, Scarcelli V, Fornai F, Paparelli A, Nigro M. The comet assay as a method of assessment of neurotoxicity: usefulness for drugs of abuse. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2007; 1074:478-81. [PMID: 17105946 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1369.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Comet assay is a quick and versatile method for assessing DNA damage in individual cells. It allows the detection of single and double DNA strand breaks, as well as the presence of alkali labile sites. DNA breaks may represent the direct effect of some damaging agent, or they may be intermediates in cellular repair. DNA strand breaks may also come from the action of free radicals generated by oxidative stress processes. The present article summarizes some data from our and other groups underlining the suitability of the Comet assay in assessing neurotoxicity and its potential in evaluating drugs of abuse-related genotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Frenzilli
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana, E Biologia Applicata, Università di Pisa, Via Volta, 4, I-56126 Pisa, Italy.
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Del Barga I, Frenzilli G, Scarcelli V, Nigro M, Malmvärn A, Asplund L, Förlin L, Sturve J. Effects of algal extracts (Polysiphonia fucoides) on rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): a biomarker approach. Mar Environ Res 2006; 62 Suppl:S283-6. [PMID: 16697459 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2006.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The genotoxicity of algal extracts (Polysiphonia fucoides) was investigated in erythrocytes of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Trout were exposed to 0.5% of the algal extract for 7 days. Comet assay (alkaline and neutral versions) and Micronucleus test were used to assess DNA damage, and Diffusion Assay to detect apoptotic cells. EROD activities and oxidative stress parameters in rainbow trout liver were also measured. A significant induction of DNA single strand breaks comparable to the ones induced by the in vivo exposure to 20 mg/kg B[a]P was observed at the end of the treatment, while increases of double strand breaks and apoptotic cells were not observed. The absence of activation of antioxidant responses seems to underline a mechanism of action of the genotoxic algal extract which does not involve oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Del Barga
- Department of Human Morphology and Applied Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Nigro M, Falleni A, Barga ID, Scarcelli V, Lucchesi P, Regoli F, Frenzilli G. Cellular biomarkers for monitoring estuarine environments: transplanted versus native mussels. Aquat Toxicol 2006; 77:339-47. [PMID: 16480782 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2005.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2005] [Revised: 12/20/2005] [Accepted: 12/21/2005] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
In developed countries, estuarine environments are often subjected to chemical pollution, whose biological impact is profitably evaluated by the use of multi-biomarker approaches on sentinel species. In this paper, we investigate genotoxicity and lysosomal alterations in the Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis), from the estuary of the River Cecina (Tuscany, Italy), selected as "pilot basin" within the Water Frame Directive (2000/60 European Community). Both native and 1 month transplanted mussels were used in order to compare these two approaches in terms of sensitiveness of specific biomarker responses. Genotoxic effects were evaluated as strand breaks, by single cell gel electrophoresis (or Comet assay), and as chromosomal alterations, by the micronucleus test in gill cells. Lysosomal alterations were assessed by the neutral red retention time (in haemocytes), lipofuscin accumulation and ultrastructure (in digestive cells). Heavy metal bioaccumulation was also analysed. Mussels from the River Cecina showed a general alteration of all the biomarkers investigated, accompanied by an elevation of tissue metal levels. However, some differences in specific responses occurred between transplanted and native mussels. Early biomarkers, such as those based on DNA and lysosomal membrane integrity, were induced at similar degree in native and transplanted mussels; while alterations resulting from cumulative events, as the increase of micronuclei frequency were much more elevated in native specimens (23.1+/-7.6) than in transplanted (9.3+/-4.7) and reference ones (5.8+/-5.2). Similarly, the comparison between lipofuscin accumulation and mean lysosomal diameter in impacted and control sites, gave significant differences exclusively with transplanted mussels. These results suggest that the parallel use of caged and native mussels in environmental biomonitoring can improve the characterization of the study area.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Nigro
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, Sezione di Biologia e Genetica, Università di Pisa,Volta 4, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
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Cocchi L, Scarcelli V, Puliti A, Barale R, Sbrana I. Endogenous sex hormones affect the mutagen-induced chromosome damage by altering a caffeine-sensitive checkpoint. Mutat Res 2005; 570:281-8. [PMID: 15708586 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2004.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2004] [Revised: 12/08/2004] [Accepted: 12/17/2004] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
In the present study we analysed the effect of endogenous sex hormones on the SCE frequencies induced in vitro by mitomycin C (MMC), a bifunctional alkylating agent producing high chromosome damage and mitotic arrest. The analysis has been performed on lymphocytes obtained at three different phases of menstrual cycle, from women with regular cycle and hormones dosage. At all phases we further analysed the effect of a post-treatment with caffeine, an agent that it is known to overrride the DNA damage checkpoints. After MMC, the cultures obtained at ovulation and luteal phases have SCE frequencies statistically higher than the cultures obtained at the progestogenic phase, showing increases of 15 and 25%, respectively. After caffeine, the MMC treated cultures which were set up at the progestogenic phase show a high potentiation of SCE frequencies (28%) whereas the treated cultures set up at ovulatory and luteal phases show little or no potentiation. These findings demonstrate that the endogenous hormones greatly modulate the SCE frequencies induced by the mutagen; they also indicate that hormones action competes with the caffeine effect. Caffeine acts by abrogating the mitotic arrest produced by DNA damage and induced cells with a higher chromosome damage into a premature mitosis. Our findings suggest that endogenous hormones could overcome the checkpoint controls activated in cells after mutagenic exposure. This action may be an epigenetic mechanism relevant in hormone carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Cocchi
- Department of Human and Environmental Sciences, University of Pisa, Vian San Guiseppe 22, Pisa 56126, Italy
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Frenzilli G, Lenzi P, Scarcelli V, Fornai F, Pellegrini A, Soldani P, Paparelli A, Nigro M. Effects of loud noise exposure on DNA integrity in rat adrenal gland. Environ Health Perspect 2004; 112:1671-2. [PMID: 15579411 PMCID: PMC1253657 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.7249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [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: 05/12/2004] [Accepted: 09/22/2004] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Loud noise is generally considered an environmental stressor causing negative effects on acoustic, cardiovascular, nervous, and endocrine systems. In this study, we investigated the effects of noise exposure on DNA integrity in rat adrenal gland evaluated by the comet assay. The exposure to loud noise (100 dBA) for 12 hr caused a significant increase of DNA damage in the adrenal gland. Genetic alterations did not decrease 24 hr after the cessation of the stimulus. We hypothesize that an imbalance of redox cell status is responsible for the induction and persistence of noise-induced cellular damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Frenzilli
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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Frenzilli G, Scarcelli V, Del Barga I, Nigro M, Förlin L, Bolognesi C, Sturve J. DNA damage in eelpout (Zoarces viviparus) from Göteborg harbour. Mutat Res 2004; 552:187-95. [PMID: 15288551 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2004.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2004] [Revised: 04/08/2004] [Accepted: 04/28/2004] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between DNA damage and the exposure of marine organisms to environmental contaminants was examined in the Göteborg harbour area. This research is part of a wider ecotoxicological study planned to evaluate the biological impact of chemical contamination in the River Göta estuary, following a bunker oil (10-100 tonnes) spill occurred in June 2003. Here we present data on the DNA strand breaks derived using the comet assay and the presence of apoptotic cells using the diffusion assay in nucleated erythrocytes of the eelpout (Zoarces viviparus) from the study area and at a clean reference site. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites were also analyzed in the bile of exposed fish. The results showed a high level of damaged DNA, paralleled by a peak in bile PAH metabolites, in fish from the most impacted site, 3 weeks after the oil spill. A significant recovery was observed in specimens from the spill site, 5 months later, but not in fish caught in the middle part of Göteborg harbour, which is chronically subjected to heavy chemical pollution. The levels of apoptic cells did not show any marked variations, but a significant recovery was observed in fish from the oil impacted site 5 months after the spill.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Frenzilli
- Department of Human Morphology and Applied Biology, University of Pisa, Via Volta 4, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
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Frenzilli G, Bocchetti R, Pagliarecci M, Nigro M, Annarumma F, Scarcelli V, Fattorini D, Regoli F. Time-course evaluation of ROS-mediated toxicity in mussels, Mytilus galloprovincialis, during a field translocation experiment. Mar Environ Res 2004; 58:609-613. [PMID: 15178087 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2004.03.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Harbours can be considered as model environments for developing and validating field monitoring procedures and to investigate mechanistic relationships between different biological responses. In this study several biomarkers were investigated in marine mussels caged for 4 weeks (June-July 2001) into an industrialized harbour of NW Italy. Organisms were collected at different time-intervals to better characterize the sensitivity, temporal variations and interactions of analysed responses. Besides single antioxidants the total oxyradical scavenging capacity (TOSC) assay was used to analyse the capability of the whole antioxidant system to neutralize specific forms of radicals: these data were further integrated by measurement of DNA integrity, oxidized bases and the impairment of lysosomal membrane stability in haemocytes. Results showed a biphasic trend for single antioxidants and TOSC, with an increase during the first 2 weeks of exposure to the polluted site followed by a progressive decrease up to a severe depletion in the final part of the experiment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Frenzilli
- Dipartimento di Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, Università di Pisa, Italy
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Regoli F, Frenzilli G, Bocchetti R, Annarumma F, Scarcelli V, Fattorini D, Nigro M. Time-course variations of oxyradical metabolism, DNA integrity and lysosomal stability in mussels, Mytilus galloprovincialis, during a field translocation experiment. Aquat Toxicol 2004; 68:167-178. [PMID: 15145226 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2004.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2003] [Revised: 03/08/2004] [Accepted: 03/10/2004] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Harbours can be considered as model environments for developing and validating field monitoring procedures and to investigate mechanistic relationships between different biological responses. In this study, several biomarkers were investigated in marine mussels caged for 4 weeks into an industrialised harbour of north-west Italy. Organisms were collected at different time intervals to better characterise the sensitivity, temporal variations and interactions of analysed responses. Besides single antioxidants (catalase, glutathione S-transferases, glutathione reductase, total glutathione), the total oxyradical scavenging capacity (TOSC) assay was used to analyse the capability of the whole antioxidant system to neutralise specific forms of radicals: these data were further integrated by measurement of DNA integrity, oxidised bases and the impairment of lysosomal membrane stability in haemocytes. Results showed a biphasic trend for single antioxidants and TOSC, with no variation or increase during the first 2 weeks of exposure to the polluted site followed by a progressive decrease up to a severe depletion in the final part of the experiment. These findings suggest an initial counteractive response of mussels toward the enhanced prooxidant challenge, while antioxidants appeared overwhelmed at longer exposure periods. The hypothesis of reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediated toxicity is supported by the appearance of cell damages (DNA integrity and lysosome membrane stability), which exhibited a progressive enhancement during the course of the experiment with a maximum impairment after 30 days of exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Regoli
- Istituto di Biologia e Genetica, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Ranieri Monte d'Ago, 60100 Ancona, Italy.
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Abstract
The ability of benzo[a]pyrene, Aroclor 1254, 2-3-7-8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin and beta-naphthoflavone to induce DNA strand breaks (SB) and apoptosis in erythrocytes of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) was investigated following by in vivo exposure. DNA damage was evaluated by the Comet assay, while the diffusion assay was used to investigate the induction of apoptosis 7 days after a single intraperitoneal administration. 2-3-7-8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin induced the highest genotoxic effect, followed by benzo[a]pyrene, while the other two substances had limited effects. A significant induction of apoptosis was observed at the highest doses after exposure to benzo[a]pyrene, when DNA damage was also elevated. The occurrence of apoptotic cells after exposure to Aroclor, 2-3-7-8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin and beta-naphthoflavone was quite variable and did not show clear dose-related responses. The role of oxidative stress in mediating DNA damage was also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Nigro
- Dipartimento Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, Pisa, Italy.
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Cecchettini A, Scarcelli V, Locci MT, Masetti M, Giorgi F. Vitellin polypeptide pathways in late insect yolk sacs. Arthropod Struct Dev 2002; 30:243-250. [PMID: 18088959 DOI: 10.1016/s1467-8039(01)00031-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2001] [Accepted: 09/03/2001] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
A panel of monoclonal antibodies was raised against late yolk sacs of the stick insect Carausius morosus and tested by immunoblotting to establish the extent vitellin polypeptides are processed proteolytically during embryonic development. Cryosections of late yolk sacs were also examined by confocal laser microscopy to determine how vitellin cleavage products become spatially distributed amongst yolk granules during the same developmental period. Distinct labelling patterns were obtained on yolk granules depending on: (1) the nature of the proteolytic processing; (2) the origin of vitellin cleavage products; and ultimately (3) their molecular sizes. Monoclonal antibodies raised against vitellin cleavage products resulting from proteolytic processing appeared to label: (1) the entire volume of many yolk granules; (2) their limiting membrane; or (3) a number of small vesicles interposed between larger yolk granules. On the other hand, monoclonal antibodies against vitellin cleavage products that remain invariant throughout development appeared to label either the serosa membrane or the cytosolic space comprised between adjacent yolk granules. Data are interpreted as indicating that vitellin cleavage products may leak out from the yolk granules, gain access to the cytosolic space of the vitellophages and eventually percolate through the serosa membrane enclosing the yolk sac.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cecchettini
- Department of Human Morphology and Applied Biology, Via A. Volta 4, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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Frenzilli G, Nigro M, Scarcelli V, Gorbi S, Regoli F. DNA integrity and total oxyradical scavenging capacity in the Mediterranean mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis: a field study in a highly eutrophicated coastal lagoon. Aquat Toxicol 2001; 53:19-32. [PMID: 11254944 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-445x(00)00159-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
In Mediterranean coastal lagoons, the combination of human impact and wide variability of natural environmental factors can lead to upsets in ecosystem homeostasis resulting in biodiversity decline. Oxidative damage has been causally linked to various kinds of environmental stress, both natural and artificial, the result being impairment of cellular functions. DNA damage and the efficiency of antioxidant defences in Mytilus galloprovincialis from the highly eutrophicated Orbetello Lagoon (Tuscany, Italy) were investigated, respectively by the single cell gel electrophoresis (or Comet test) and the total oxyradical scavenging capacity assay. Results showed significantly higher levels of DNA damage in mussels collected from the inner parts of the lagoon compared to specimens from more external sites. Specimens with the lower genetic integrity also exhibited a reduced efficiency in neutralizing three potent cellular oxidizing species, namely peroxyl radicals (ROO*), hydroxyl radicals (*OH) and peroxynitrite (HOONO), suggesting the involvement of reactive oxygen species in mediating the genetic damage. The analyzed biological parameters also showed a seasonal variability with a minimum of both DNA integrity and antioxidant scavenging efficiency during the warm months and an opposite trend in winter. The potential of analyzed techniques is discussed for the assessment of both anthropogenic and natural disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Frenzilli
- Dipartimento Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, Università di Pisa, Via Volta 4, I-56126, Pisa, Italy
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Taddei F, Scarcelli V, Frenzilli G, Nigro M. Genotoxic hazard of pollutants in cetaceans: DNA damage and repair evaluated in the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) by the Comet Assay. Mar Pollut Bull 2001; 42:324-328. [PMID: 11381754 DOI: 10.1016/s0025-326x(00)00159-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Single cell gel electrophoresis (or Comet Assay) was used for evaluation of the in vitro genotoxicity of hydrogen peroxide (used as a positive control), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) (Aroclor 1254) and methyl mercury chloride, in isolated bottlenose dolphin leukocytes. Results showed that hydrogen peroxide and methyl mercury induced DNA strand breakage in a dose-dependent manner, while PCBs did not induce a clear dose-effect response at the low doses investigated. Efficiency in repairing DNA breakage induced by methyl mercury was also evaluated. Findings demonstrated that dolphin cells are characterized by higher efficiency in DNA repair when compared to human leukocytes. The observed resistance to methyl mercury toxicity in dolphins was hypothesized to be a defence strategy developed to combat high dietary exposure and compensate for limited capacity to excrete persistent pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Taddei
- Dipartimento Morfologia Umana e Biologia Applicata, Università di Pisa, Via Volta 4, I-56126 Pisa, Italy
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Barale R, Marrazzini A, Bacci E, Di Sibio A, Tessa A, Cocchi L, Scarcelli V, Lubrano V, Vassalle C, Landi S. Sister chromatid exchange and micronucleus frequency in human lymphocytes of 1,650 subjects in an Italian population: I. Contribution of methodological factors. Environ Mol Mutagen 1998; 31:218-227. [PMID: 9585260 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1098-2280(1998)31:3<218::aid-em3>3.0.co;2-g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The influence of several methodological factors on mean values of sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs) and micronuclei (MN) in peripheral lymphocytes of 1,650 subjects was analyzed. Donors belonged to a general healthy population living in Pisa and in two nearby small cities: Cascina and Navacchio (Ca-Na). Blood samples were collected over a period of 29 months and processed in three different laboratories of the some institute. Slides were analyzed by several scorers. Our data showed that lymphocyte proliferation indexes (PIs) and baseline mean values of SCEs were affected mainly by sampling period. This factor accounted for a percentage ranging from roughly 10% (Pisa) to 20% (Ca-Na) of total SCE variance and from roughly 10% (Pisa) to 13% (Ca-Na) of total PIs variance. A marginal effect was attributable to the different laboratories involved (maximum 3% for SCEs and 7% for PIs). The sampling period variable included many sources of variability such as culture media batches, fetal calf serum, PHA, BrdUrd, and seasonality. MN counts revealed a more marked dependence on processing laboratories. This factor accounted for a percentage of roughly 10% (Pisa and Ca-Na) of total variance, while the sampling period was marginally effective (about 1-4% of total variability). Because laboratories were equipped and supplied with the same materials and consumables and technicians were rotated constantly, the only variable ascertained was represented by the three different models of CO2 incubators used for lymphocyte culturing. When "month" and "incubator" variables were considered jointly, experimental variability accounted for 15-20% of total variance, both for PIs and mean values SCEs and MN. The variability due to slide scoring was reduced by assigning each slide to five different scorers and matching low with high scorers in each group. Present data show that when the study is performed under these controlled conditions, about 20% of total interdonor variability can be explained by experimental or seasonal factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Barale
- Dipartimento di Scienze dell'Uomo e dell'Ambiente, Università di Pisa, Italy
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Barale R, Barrai I, Sbrana I, Migliore L, Marrazzini A, Scarcelli V, Bacci E, Di Sibio A, Tessa A, Cocchi L. Monitoring human exposure to urban air pollutants. Environ Health Perspect 1993; 101 Suppl 3:89-95. [PMID: 8143653 PMCID: PMC1521169 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.93101s389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
A multidisciplinary study on a general population exposed to vehicle exhaust was undertaken in Pisa in 1991. Environmental factors such as air pollution and those associated with lifestyle were studied. Meanwhile, biological and medical indicators of health condition were investigated. Chromosomal aberrations, sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs), and micronuclei in lymphocytes were included for the assessment of the genotoxic risk. Because of the large number (3800) of subjects being investigated, standardization of protocols was compulsory. The results on data reproducibility are reported. To assess the reliability of the protocol on a large scale, the population of Porto Tolle, a village located in northeast Italy, was studied and compared to a subset of the Pisa population. Preliminary results showed that probable differences between the two populations and individuals were present in terms of SCE frequencies. The study was potentially able to detect the effects of several factors such as age, smoking, genetics, and environment. The in vitro treatment of lymphocytes with diepoxybutane confirmed the presence of more responsive individuals and permitted us to investigate the genetic predisposition to genetic damage. The possible influence of environmental factors was studied by correlation analyses with external exposure to air pollutants as well as with several lifestyle factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Barale
- Dipartimento di Biologia Evolutiva, Università di Ferrara, Italy
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Sbrana I, Di Sibio A, Lomi A, Scarcelli V. C-mitosis and numerical chromosome aberration analyses in human lymphocytes: 10 known or suspected spindle poisons. Mutat Res 1993; 287:57-70. [PMID: 7683385 DOI: 10.1016/0027-5107(93)90145-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
As a part of a coordinated EEC project to validate suitable assays for chemically induced genomic mutations, numerical chromosomal aberrations and spindle effects were studied in human lymphocyte cultures exposed to cadmium chloride, chloral hydrate, colchicine, diazepam, econazole, hydroquinone, pyrimethamine, thiabendazole, thimerosal and vinblastine. Chromosome number analysis was carried out after treatment for 48 and 72 h; spindle effects, i.e., increases in the mitotic indices and c-mitoses, were analyzed in cultures treated 5 h before fixation. Dose-related numerical chromosomal aberrations are induced by colchicine and vinblastine, the only chemicals that also induce c-mitotic effects in a wide range of doses. Hyperdiploidy is induced by chloral hydrate, cadmium chloride and thimerosal without dose-effect relationship; chloral hydrate and thimerosal affect spindle functions while only a weak spindle effect is produced by cadmium chloride. Tetraploid and/or endoreduplicated cells are induced without dose-effect relationship by hydroquinone, thiabendazole and thimerosal, all of them able to produce c-mitotic effects. Diazepam and econazole induce only hypodiploidy; pyrimethamine does not induce numerical chromosomal aberrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Sbrana
- Dipartimento di Scienze dell'Ambiente e del Territorio, Università di Pisa, Italy
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