A toxicology study of Csf2ra complementation and pulmonary macrophage transplantation therapy of hereditary PAP in mice

Pulmonary macrophage transplantation (PMT) is a gene and cell transplantation approach in development as therapy for hereditary pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (hPAP), a surfactant accumulation disorder caused by mutations in CSF2RA/B (and murine homologs). We conducted a toxicology study of PMT of Csf2ra gene-corrected macrophages (mGM-Rα+Mϕs) or saline-control intervention in Csf2raKO or wild-type (WT) mice including single ascending dose and repeat ascending dose studies evaluating safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics. Lentiviral-mediated Csf2ra cDNA transfer restored GM-CSF signaling in mGM-Rα+Mϕs. Following PMT, mGM-Rα+Mϕs engrafted, remained within the lungs, and did not undergo uncontrolled proliferation or result in bronchospasm, pulmonary function abnormalities, pulmonary or systemic inflammation, anti-transgene product antibodies, or pulmonary fibrosis. Aggressive male fighting caused a similarly low rate of serious adverse events in saline- and PMT-treated mice. Transient, minor pulmonary neutrophilia and exacerbation of pre-existing hPAP-related lymphocytosis were observed 14 days after PMT of the safety margin dose but not the target dose (5,000,000 or 500,000 mGM-Rα+Mϕs, respectively) and only in Csf2raKO mice but not in WT mice. PMT reduced lung disease severity in Csf2raKO mice. Results indicate PMT of mGM-Rα+Mϕs was safe, well tolerated, and therapeutically efficacious in Csf2raKO mice, and established a no adverse effect level and 10-fold safety margin.

Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in amphibians and reptiles - exposure and health effects

Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are commonly used in various industries and everyday products, including clothing, electronics, furniture, paints, and many others. PFASs are primarily found in aquatic environments, but also present in soil, air and plants, making them one of the most important and dangerous pollutants of the natural environment. PFASs bioaccumulate in living organisms and are especially dangerous to aquatic and semi-aquatic animals. As endocrine disruptors, PFASs affect many internal organs and systems, including reproductive, endocrine, nervous, cardiovascular, and immune systems. This manuscript represents the first comprehensive review exclusively focusing on PFASs in amphibians and reptiles. Both groups of animals are highly vulnerable to PFASs in the natural habitats. Amphibians and reptiles, renowned for their sensitivity to environmental changes, are often used as crucial bioindicators to monitor ecosystem health and environmental pollution levels. Furthermore, the decline in amphibian and reptile populations worldwide may be related to increasing environmental pollution. Therefore, studies investigating the exposure of amphibians and reptiles to PFASs, as well as their impacts on these organisms are essential in modern toxicology. Summarizing the current knowledge on PFASs in amphibians and reptiles in a single manuscript will facilitate the exploration of new research topics in this field. Such a comprehensive review will aid researchers in understanding the implications of PFASs exposure on amphibians and reptiles, guiding future investigations to mitigate their adverse effects of these vital components of ecosystems.

A Narrative Review of Aconite Poisoning and Management

Aconite poisoning refers to toxicity resulting from plants belonging to the Aconitum genus, which comprises over 350 different species of perennial flowering plants that grow in temperate mountainous areas of the northern hemisphere (North America, Europe, Asia). These plants contain a group of toxins known as aconite alkaloids, which encompass numerous closely related toxic compounds. Conventional teaching from toxicology textbooks has broadly classified these alkaloids based on their mechanism of action, often simplifying them as substances that prevent sodium channel inactivation. However, this is an oversimplified and sometimes inaccurate description, as some aconite alkaloids can act as sodium channel blockers. Aconite alkaloids have a long history of use as poisonous substances and have been historically employed for hunting, assassinations, traditional medicine, and self-inflicted harm. Toxicity can occur due to the consumption of traditional medicines derived from aconitum plants or the ingestion of aconite plants and their derivatives. The clinical manifestations of aconite poisoning may encompass gastrointestinal symptoms, sensory alterations, seizures, and life-threatening dysrhythmias that may not respond to standard treatments. Treatment is primarily supportive however evaluation and management of these patients should be personalized and carried out in collaboration with a toxicologist.

A Light Touch: Solar Photocatalysis Detoxifies Oil Sands Process-Affected Waters Prior to Significant Treatment of Naphthenic Acids

Environmental reclamation of Canada's oil sands tailings ponds is among the single largest water treatment challenges globally. The toxicity of oil sands process-affected water (OSPW) has been associated with its dissolved organics, a complex mixture of naphthenic acid fraction components (NAFCs). Here, we evaluated solar treatment with buoyant photocatalysts (BPCs) as a passive advanced oxidation process (P-AOP) for OSPW remediation. Photocatalysis fully degraded naphthenic acids (NAs) and acid extractable organics (AEO) in 3 different OSPW samples. However, classical NAs and AEO, traditionally considered among the principal toxicants in OSPW, were not correlated with OSPW toxicity herein. Instead, nontarget petroleomic analysis revealed that low-polarity organosulfur compounds, composing <10% of the total AEO, apparently accounted for the majority of waters' toxicity to fish, as described by a model of tissue partitioning. These findings have implications for OSPW release, for which a less extensive but more selective treatment may be required than previously expected.

Recovery Animals in Toxicology Studies: An Innovation and Quality Consortium Perspective on Best Practices With Case Study Examples

The inclusion of recovery animals in nonclinical safety studies that support clinical trials is undertaken with a wide diversity of approaches even while operating under harmonized regulatory guidance. While empirical evaluation of reversibility may enhance the overall nonclinical risk assessment, there are often overlooked opportunities to reduce recovery animal use by leveraging robust scientific and regulatory information. In the past, there were several attempts to benchmark recovery practices; however, recommendations have not been consistently applied across the pharmaceutical industry. A working group (WG) sponsored by the 3Rs Translational and Predictive Sciences Leadership Group of the IQ Consortium conducted a survey of current industry practice related to the evaluation of reversibility/recovery in repeat dose toxicity studies. Discussion among the WG representatives included member company strategies and case studies that highlight challenges and opportunities for continuous refinements in the use of recovery animals. The case studies presented in this paper demonstrate increasing alignment with the Society of Toxicologic Pathology recommendations (2013) towards (1) excluding recovery phase cohorts by default (include only when scientifically justified), (2) minimizing the number of recovery groups (e.g., control and one dose level), and (3) excluding controls in the recovery cohort by leveraging external and/or dosing phase data. Recovery group exclusion and decisions regarding the timing of reversibility evaluation may be driven by indication, modality, and/or other scientific or strategic factors using a weight of evidence approach. The results and recommendations discussed present opportunities to further decrease animal use without impacting the quality of human risk assessment.

Broad evidence of xylazine in the UK illicit drug market beyond heroin supplies: Triangulating from toxicology, drug-testing and law enforcement

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Xylazine is a non-opioid sedative which has spread rapidly throughout the US illicit drug supply. This study aimed to describe the spread of xylazine throughout the UK illicit drug supply.

METHODS

Xylazine detections in human biological samples were collated from toxicology laboratories operating in the United Kingdom with the date, location, case type, xylazine concentration and co-detected drugs (with quantifications where performed) detailed, where permitted, by the corresponding coroner. Drug-testing cases positive for xylazine were collated from the Welsh Emerging Drugs and Identification of Novel Substances (WEDINOS) drug-testing postal service with the date, location, purchase intent and co-detected drugs detailed. Drug seizures made by UK law enforcement were communicated by the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities with the date and location detailed.

RESULTS

By the end of August 2023, xylazine was detected in 35 cases from throughout toxicology, drug-testing and drug seizure sources covering England, Scotland and Wales. There were no cases reported from Northern Ireland. Xylazine was detected in biological samples from 16 people. In most cases where full toxicology results were provided, xylazine was detected with heroin and/or a strong opioid (n = nine of 11), but this polydrug use pattern was not evident in all cases (n = two of 11), suggesting a wider circulation of xylazine in the UK illicit drug market beyond heroin supplies. Evidence from WEDINOS supports this claim, as all 14 drug samples (100%) submitted from across the UK contained xylazine; however, in none of these cases was heroin the purchase intent but rather counterfeit prescription medication tablets (n = 11 of 14), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) vapes (n = two of 14) or white powder (n = one of 14). Additional evidence for the spread of illicit xylazine comes from five drug seizures made by law enforcement.

CONCLUSIONS

Xylazine has penetrated the UK illicit drug market and is not limited to heroin supplies.

Gold Nanoparticles (AuNPs)-Toxicity, Safety and Green Synthesis: A Critical Review

In recent years, the extensive exploration of Gold Nanoparticles (AuNPs) has captivated the scientific community due to their versatile applications across various industries. With sizes typically ranging from 1 to 100 nm, AuNPs have emerged as promising entities for innovative technologies. This article comprehensively reviews recent advancements in AuNPs research, encompassing synthesis methodologies, diverse applications, and crucial insights into their toxicological profiles. Synthesis techniques for AuNPs span physical, chemical, and biological routes, focusing on eco-friendly "green synthesis" approaches. A critical examination of physical and chemical methods reveals their limitations, including high costs and the potential toxicity associated with using chemicals. Moreover, this article investigates the biosafety implications of AuNPs, shedding light on their potential toxic effects on cellular, tissue, and organ levels. By synthesizing key findings, this review underscores the pressing need for a thorough understanding of AuNPs toxicities, providing essential insights for safety assessment and advancing green toxicology principles.

Emerging Role of Environmental Epitranscriptomics and RNA Modifications in Parkinson's Disease

Environmental risk factors and gene-environment interactions play a critical role in Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the relatively large contribution of environmental risk factors in the overwhelming majority of PD cases has been widely neglected in the field. A "PD prevention agenda" proposed in this journal laid out a set of research priorities focused on preventing PD through modification of environmental risk factors. This agenda includes a call for preclinical studies to employ new high-throughput methods for analyzing transcriptomics and epigenomics to provide a deeper understanding of the effects of exposures linked to PD. Here, we focus on epitranscriptomics as a novel area of research with the potential to add to our understanding of the interplay between genes and environmental exposures in PD. Both epigenetics and epitranscriptomics have been recognized as potential mediators of the complex relationship between genes, environment, and disease. Multiple studies have identified epigenetic alterations, such as DNA methylation, associated with PD and PD-related exposures in human studies and preclinical models. In addition, recent technological advancements have made it possible to study epitranscriptomic RNA modifications, such as RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A), and a handful of recent studies have begun to explore epitranscriptomics in PD-relevant exposure models. Continued exploration of epitranscriptomic mechanisms in environmentally relevant PD models offers the opportunity to identify biomarkers, pre-degenerative changes that precede symptom onset, and potential mitigation strategies for disease prevention and treatment.

Emergency Department Take-Home Naloxone Improves Access Compared with Pharmacy-Dispensed Naloxone

BACKGROUND

Opioid overdose is a major cause of mortality in the United States. In spite of efforts to increase naloxone availability, distribution to high-risk populations remains a challenge.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effects of multiple different naloxone distribution methods on patient obtainment of naloxone in the emergency department (ED) setting.

METHODS

Naloxone was provided to patients in three 12-month phases between February 2020 and February 2023. In Phase 1, physicians could offer patients electronic prescriptions, which were filled in a nearby in-hospital discharge pharmacy. In Phase 2, physicians directly provided patients with take-home naloxone at discharge. In Phase 3, distribution was expanded to allow ED staff to hand patients take-home naloxone at time of discharge. The total number of prescriptions, rate of prescription filling, and amount of take-home naloxone kits provided to patients were then statistically analyzed using 95% confidence intervals (CI) and chi-squared testing.

RESULTS

In Phase 1, 348 naloxone prescriptions were written, with 133 (95% CI 112.5-153.5) filled. In Phase 2, 327 (95% CI 245.5-408.5) take-home naloxone kits were given to patients by physicians. In Phase 3, 677 (95% CI 509.5-844.5) take-home naloxone kits were provided to patients by ED staff. There were statistically significant increases in naloxone distribution from Phase 1 to Phase 2, and Phase 2 to Phase 3.

CONCLUSIONS

Take-home naloxone increases access when compared with naloxone prescriptions in the ED setting. A multidisciplinary approach combined with the removal of regulatory and administrative barriers allowed for further increased distribution of no-cost naloxone to patients.

The new normal chemical landscape: the future of risk assessment toward optimum consumer safety

The further optimization of consumer safety through risk assessment of chemicals present in food will require adaptability and flexibility to utilize the accelerating developments in safety science and technology. New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) are gaining traction as a systematic approach to support informed decision making in chemical risk assessment. The vision is to be able to predict risk more accurately, rapidly and efficiently. The opportunity exists now to use these approaches which requires a strategy to translate the science into future regulatory implementation. Here we discuss new insights obtained from three recent workshops on how to translate the science into future regulatory implementation. To assist the UK in this endeavor, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and the scientific advisory committee on chemical toxicity (COT) have been developing a roadmap. In addition, we discuss how these new insights fit into the bigger picture of the new chemical landscape for better consumer safety and the importance of international harmonization.

Pediatric poisoning management: How clinical practice can benefit from forensic approach

Pediatric population represents the most vulnerable and at risk for unintentional poisoning, with children younger than 6 years old accounting for nearly half of poison exposures. Poisoning is a time-dependent emergency. The need to reach a scientific agreement on diagnostic protocol and treatment seems to be crucial to reduce morbidity and mortality. Starting from a buprenorphine pediatric intoxication case, this article highlights the limits and pitfalls of the traditional diagnostic approach. Diagnosis of drug intoxication was achieved after several days when an in-depth diagnostic investigation became necessary and complete forensic toxicological analyses were performed. Results evidenced an alarming lack of an unequivocal diagnostic protocol in case of suspect intoxication in structures not provided with a forensic toxicological service/unit. Collection of biological specimens according to forensic protocols at hospitalization plays a paramount role in the definitive diagnosis of intoxication. A diagnostic algorithm that focuses on medical history and biological specimen collection timing is herein proposed, in order to unify emergency approaches to the suspected poisoned child.

A Global Systematic Review of Lead (Pb) Exposure and its Health Effects in Wild Mammals

Lead (Pb) is a toxic nonessential metal, known mainly for causing poisoning of humans and wild birds. However, little is known about Pb exposure and its associated health effects in wild mammals. We conducted a global systematic literature review to identify peer-reviewed studies published on Pb exposure in wild mammalian species and the health effects they identified. In total, 183 studies, conducted in 35 countries and published over 62 yr (1961-2022), were included in the review. Only 6% (11/183) of the studies were conducted in developing countries. Although 153 mammalian species were studied, most studies focused on species that are easy to access (i.e., hunted species and small mammals that are easy to trap). Therefore, carnivores and scavengers were less frequently studied than herbivores and omnivores. Despite all studies reporting Pb concentrations, only 45 (25%) studies investigated health effects and, of these 45 studies, only 28 (62%) found any health effect in 57 species. All health effects were negative and ranged from subclinical effects to fatality. Methodologies of Pb sampling and quantification and reporting of results varied widely across the studies, making both Pb concentrations and health effects difficult to compare and evaluate. Thus, there is a need for more research on Pb exposure and its health effects on wild mammals, especially as carnivores and scavengers could be used as sentinels for ecosystem health.

Drug reactive metabolite-induced hepatotoxicity: a comprehensive review

Nowadays, drug-induced liver toxicity (DILT) is one of the main contributing factors to severe liver disease. In the United States (US) alone, DILT is the cause of more than 50% of instances of acute liver failure. Prescription or over-the-counter drugs, xenobiotics, and herbal and nutritional supplements can cause DILT and could produce anomalies in hepatic function tests. Some drugs induce hepatotoxicity directly, and others induce it indirectly (i. e. through their toxic or reactive metabolites). Currently, the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) has issued black box warnings for about 1279 drugs due to their hepatotoxicity. When we analyzed their mechanism in inducing hepatotoxicity, we found nearly 18 drugs causing hepatotoxicity by their toxic metabolites. In this review, we attempted to highlight the well-known drugs that induce hepatotoxicity indirectly through their toxic metabolites including the enzymes involved in the formation of these metabolites. The Cytochrome P-450 (CYP), Hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase 1, Alcohol oxidase, Uridine diphosphate (UDP)-glucuronosyltransferases, Xanthine dehydrogenase, Purine-nucleoside phosphorylase, Xanthine oxidase, Thiopurine S-methyltransferase, Inosine-5'-monophosphate dehydrogenase, and aldehyde dehydrogenase are involving in the formation of toxic metabolites. The metabolic reactions and enzymes discussed in this review help toxicologists, pharmacologists, and chemists to design and develop hepatotoxicity-free pharmaceutical products containing the inhibitors of these enzymes to reduce hepatotoxicity and improve human health.

Applicability of a Chemiluminescence Immunoassay to Screen Postmortem Bile Specimens and Its Agreement with Confirmation Analysis

Bile has emerged as an alternative matrix for toxicological investigation of drugs in suspected forensic cases of overdose in adults and intoxications in children. Toxicological investigation consists in screening and, subsequently, confirming the result with specific techniques, such as liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). As there is no screening test on the market to test postmortem bile specimens, the novelty of this study was in investigating the applicability of a chemiluminescence immunoassay, designed for other matrices and available on the market, on bile and validate its use, testing the agreement with LC-MS/MS analysis. Bile specimens were obtained from 25 forensic cases of suspected death from overdose and intoxication. Sample preparation for bile screening consists simply in centrifugation and dilution. Confirmation analysis allows simultaneous identification of 108 drugs and was validated on bile. Kappa analysis assessed a perfect agreement (0.81-1) between the assays for benzodiazepines, methadone, opiates, cocaine, oxycodone, cannabinoids, buprenorphine and pregabalin; a substantial agreement (0.41-0.6) was reported for barbiturates. No agreement was assessed for amphetamines, due to an abundance of putrefactive amines in postmortem specimens. In conclusion, this fast and easy immunoassay could be used for initial screening of bile specimens, identifying presence of drugs, except amphetamines, with reliability.

Digitalization of toxicology: improving preclinical to clinical translation

Though the portfolio of medicines that are extending and improving the lives of patients continues to grow, drug discovery and development remains a challenging business on its best day. Safety liabilities are a significant contributor to development attrition where the costliest liabilities to both drug developers and patients emerge in late development or post-marketing. Animal studies are an important and influential contributor to the current drug discovery and development paradigm intending to provide evidence that a novel drug candidate can be used safely and effectively in human volunteers and patients. However, translational gaps-such as toxicity in patients not predicted by animal studies-have prompted efforts to improve their effectiveness, especially in safety assessment. More holistic monitoring and "digitalization" of animal studies has the potential to enrich study outcomes leading to datasets that are more computationally accessible, translationally relevant, replicable, and technically efficient. Continuous monitoring of animal behavior and physiology enables longitudinal assessment of drug effects, detection of effects during the animal's sleep and wake cycles and the opportunity to detect health or welfare events earlier. Automated measures can also mitigate human biases and reduce subjectivity. Reinventing a conservative, standardized, and traditional paradigm like drug safety assessment requires the collaboration and contributions of a broad and multi-disciplinary stakeholder group. In this perspective, we review the current state of the field and discuss opportunities to improve current approaches by more fully leveraging the power of sensor technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and animal behavior in a home cage environment.

A comprehensive review of the botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of Murrayae Folium et Cacumen

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Murrayae Folium et Cacumen (MFC) is a plant considered to be a traditional Chinese medicine with culinary value as well. The dry leaves and twigs of Murraya paniculata and M. exotica are used to treat stomach aches, rheumatism, toothaches, swelling, and insect and snake bites. They are also used to prepare spicy chicken dishes. Aim of the review: This review comprehensively summarizes the available information on the botanical characterization, phytochemistry, pharmacological activities, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity of MFC. Methods: Relevant scientific literature up to August 2023 was included in the study. Chinese and English studies on MFC were collected from databases, including PubMed, Elsevier, Web of Science, Springer, Science Direct, Wiley, ACS, and CNKI (Chinese). Doctoral and Master's dissertations were also included. Results: In total, 720 compounds have been identified and reported in the literature, including flavonoids, coumarins, alkaloids, sterols, phenylpropenols, organic acids, spirocyclopentenones, and volatile oils. Flavonoids and coumarins are the two most important bioactive compounds responsible for these pharmacological activities. MFC has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-diabetic, anti-tumor, anti-oxidant, anti-depressant, potential anti-Alzheimer's disease, chondroprotective, and analgesic properties. The pharmacological effects include interrupting the STAT3/NF-κB/COX-2 and EGFR signaling pathways, downregulating EpCAM expression, inhibiting NF-κB and ERK signals, inhibiting the EP/cAMP/PKA signaling pathway and miR-29a/Wnt/β-catenin signaling activity, and upregulating Foxo3a expression. Conclusion: This review demonstrates that the chemical constituents, pharmacological activities, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity of MFC support its use in traditional Chinese botanical medicines. MFC contains a wide range of chemical compounds. Flavonoids and coumarins promote strong pharmacological activity and, are low-toxicity natural phytomedicines that are widely used in medicine, food, ornamentation, and cosmetics, making MFC a promising compound for development and use in the treatment of several medical conditions.

Acute paraquat poisoning in an adolescent with compromised outcome: A case report

Paraquat, a highly toxic herbicide, accounts for a substantial number of poisoning-related fatalities, primarily prevalent in agricultural regions. The ingestion gives rise to severe complications affecting various organs, including the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys and liver. This report details the case of an 18-year-old male who had been using cannabis for a year and inadvertently ingested paraquat. He presented at the emergency room exhibiting symptoms of vomiting characterized by hematemesis and regurgitated food particles, along with heartburn, dysphagia and reduced urine output. Given the absence of a specific antidote, the prognosis for paraquat poisoning remains generally unfavourable. Diagnosis relies on circumstantial evidence and clinical manifestations, necessitating a focus on supportive care. Presently, no specific antidote for paraquat poisoning is available. Efforts should concentrate on preventive measures, efficient decontamination strategies and vigilant stabilization protocols in instances of exposure.

Has the rescheduling of modified-release paracetamol in Australia affected the frequency of overdoses?

OBJECTIVES

In June 2020, modified-release paracetamol (paracetamol-MR) preparations were up-scheduled from schedule-2 (available in pharmacy) to schedule-3 (available by request to a pharmacist only). The present study aims to ascertain whether up-scheduling affected the frequency of paracetamol-MR overdoses.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study of two data sets from 1 June 2017 to 31 May 2022. Monash Health data were extracted using the diagnosis of paracetamol overdose coding and electronic medical records data. Calls regarding paracetamol-MR overdoses to Victorian Poisons Information Centre (VPIC) were extracted from the Poisons centre call database. We used a quasi-experimental research design with interrupted time series analysis to evaluate the immediate impact and change in trend of poisoning-related calls and ED presentations before and after June 2020. The change in proportion of paracetamol-MR cases in both databases was analysed using the Χ2 test.

RESULTS

The proportion of paracetamol-MR cases in both data sets did not change. From Monash Health, there was no level change in monthly paracetamol-MR overdose-related presentations following re-scheduling (rate ratio [RR] = 1.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.57-2.01). There was no change in monthly paracetamol-MR overdose-related calls to VPIC following re-scheduling (RR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.96-1.14).

CONCLUSION

The proportion of paracetamol-MR overdoses did not decrease after the up-scheduling to S3. Similarly, the frequency of overdoses by month remained similar. Further limitations on access to paracetamol products may need to be considered.

The emerging role of hypoxia and environmental factors in inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic and debilitating disorder characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Despite extensive research, the exact cause of IBD remains unknown, hampering the development of effective therapies. However, emerging evidence suggests that hypoxia, a condition resulting from inadequate oxygen supply, plays a crucial role in intestinal inflammation and tissue damage in IBD. Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), transcription factors that regulate the cellular response to low oxygen levels, have gained attention for their involvement in modulating inflammatory processes and maintaining tissue homeostasis. The two most studied HIFs, HIF-1α and HIF-2α, have been implicated in the development and progression of IBD. Toxicological factors encompass a wide range of environmental and endogenous agents, including dietary components, microbial metabolites, and pollutants. These factors can profoundly influence the hypoxic microenvironment within the gut, thereby exacerbating the course of IBD and fostering the progression of colitis-associated colorectal cancer. This review explores the regulation of hypoxia signaling at the molecular, microenvironmental, and environmental levels, investigating the intricate interplay between toxicological factors and hypoxic signaling in the context of IBD, focusing on its most concerning outcomes: intestinal fibrosis and colorectal cancer.

Costs of molecular adaptation to the chemical exposome: a focus on xenobiotic metabolism pathways

Organisms adapt to their environment through different pathways. In vertebrates, xenobiotics are detected, metabolized and eliminated through the inducible xenobiotic-metabolizing pathways (XMP) which can also generate reactive toxic intermediates. In this review, we will discuss the impacts of the chemical exposome complexity on the balance between detoxication and side effects. There is a large discrepancy between the limited number of proteins involved in these pathways (few dozens) and the diversity and complexity of the chemical exposome (tens of thousands of chemicals). Several XMP proteins have a low specificity which allows them to bind and/or metabolize a large number of chemicals. This leads to undesired consequences, such as cross-inhibition, inefficient metabolism, release of toxic intermediates, etc. Furthermore, several XMP proteins have endogenous functions that may be disrupted upon exposure to exogenous chemicals. The gut microbiome produces a very large number of metabolites that enter the body and are part of the chemical exposome. It can metabolize xenobiotics and either eliminate them or lead to toxic derivatives. The complex interactions between chemicals of different origins will be illustrated by the diverse roles of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor which binds and transduces the signals of a large number of xenobiotics, microbiome metabolites, dietary chemicals and endogenous compounds. This article is part of the theme issue 'Endocrine responses to environmental variation: conceptual approaches and recent developments'.

Hepatitis A Virus Infection in Cynomolgus Monkeys Confounds the Safety Evaluation of a Drug Candidate

In a 3-month toxicity study in cynomolgus monkeys at a European contract laboratory, animals were infected with HAV, initially resulting in hepatic injury being incorrectly attributed to the test compound. Elevated serum ALT/AST/GLDH (5- to 10-fold) were noted in individual animals from all groups including controls, with no apparent dose, exposure, or time-related relationship. Liver histopathology revealed minimal to slight inflammatory cell accumulation in periportal zones of most animals, and minimal to slight hepatocyte degeneration/necrosis in 10/42 animals from all groups. As these findings were more pronounced in 6 drug-treated animals, including 2/6 in the low dose group, the draft report concluded: "treatment-related hepatotoxicity at all dose levels precluded determination of a NOAEL." However, the unusual pattern of hepatotoxicity suggested a factor other than drug exposure might have caused the hepatic effects. Therefore, snap-frozen liver samples were tested for hepatitis viruses using a PCR method. Tests for hepatitis B, C, and E virus were negative; however, 20/42 samples were positive for hepatitis A virus (HAV). Infection was strongly associated with increased serum ALT/GLDH, and/or hepatocyte degeneration/necrosis. Re-evaluation of the study in light of these data concluded that the hepatic injury was not drug-related. A subsequent 6-month toxicology study in HAV-vaccinated cynomolgus monkeys confirmed the absence of hepatotoxicity. Identification of HAV infection supported progression of the drug candidate into later clinical trials. Although rarely investigated, subclinical HAV infection has occasionally been reported in laboratory primates, including those used for toxicology studies and it may be more prevalent than the literature indicates.

Self-medication cases reported to a poison information center in Brazil from 2014 to 2020

INTRODUCTION

Self-medication is the use of drugs to treat self-diagnosed illnesses or symptoms, on one's own initiative, without the guidance of a healthcare professional. Poison centers play an important role in understanding the relationship between self-medication and poisoning. The objective of this study is to evaluate the clinical and epidemiological profile of patients exposed to and/or poisoned by different drugs through self-medication.

METHODS

This retrospective, cross-sectional, and descriptive study analyzed data from 2014 to 2020, provided by the Toxicological Information and Assistance Center of Santa Catarina, Brazil. Data were selected, tabulated, and analyzed by using descriptive statistics and group comparison with the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test. A P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

There were 683 cases of self-medication identified. Most patients were female (62.8 percent) and between 20 and 29 years old (26.1 percent). A toxic dose of a substance was administered in only 22.8 percent of the cases, and five deaths were recorded. The most commonly used medications were anxiolytics (18 percent), followed by analgesics and antipyretics (15.4 percent). Paracetamol was the drug used in three of the five cases that resulted in deaths.

DISCUSSION

This study demonstrates the prevalence of self-medication among women aged between 20 and 29 years old. Statistical analysis failed to show a relationship between a toxic dose and clinical manifestations. Anxiolytics, analgesics, and antipyretics are the most reported medications probably because healthcare professionals are mostly the ones who contact the center. Analgesics and antipyretics account for more than fifty percent of the deaths caused by self-medication in the present report. Some limitations such as secondary sources are related.

CONCLUSION

We highlight the importance of health professionals in promoting the rational use of medicines, as well as poison centers in assisting the population and raising their awareness regarding the issue.

Exploring in the classroom the relationship between alcohol intake and behavioral disorders through an animal model

Alcohol consumption has profound effects on behavior, such as impaired judgment, addiction or even death. It is estimated that alcohol contributes to around three million deaths worldwide, 13.5% of them in young people with ages between 20 and 39 years. Consequently, it is necessary to raise awareness among college and high school students of the risk related to alcohol drinking. The small nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is an animal widely used as a model organism to study nearly all aspects of Biochemistry. It is a powerful tool to test the potential bioactivity and molecular mechanisms of natural compounds and drugs in vivo. Therefore, it is an interesting topic to include in an undergraduate course of Biotechnology, Biochemistry or Biology students among other scientific vocations. C. elegans is also used as a neurobiological model to evaluate substances´ neurotoxicity and behavioral effects. The proposed experiment introduces students to the handling of this preclinical model and to the evaluation of behavioral alterations induced by chemicals in scientific research. The effects of different doses of ethanol on C. elegans behavior are studied using a versatile chemotaxis assay. This laboratory experiment is suitable for an undergraduate course. The practical session can be used in the global strategies of information and awareness of educational centres to mitigate the impact of alcohol abuse among students, both in formal courses or in Science fairs or exhibitions.

A high-throughput gut-on-chip platform to study the epithelial responses to enterotoxins

Enterotoxins are a type of toxins that primarily affect the intestines. Understanding their harmful effects is essential for food safety and medical research. Current methods lack high-throughput, robust, and translatable models capable of characterizing toxin-specific epithelial damage. Pressing concerns regarding enterotoxin contamination of foods and emerging interest in clinical applications of enterotoxins emphasize the need for new platforms. Here, we demonstrate how Caco-2 tubules can be used to study the effect of enterotoxins on the human intestinal epithelium, reflecting toxins' distinct pathogenic mechanisms. After exposure of the model to toxins nigericin, ochratoxin A, patulin and melittin, we observed dose-dependent reductions in barrier permeability as measured by TEER, which were detected with higher sensitivity than previous studies using conventional models. Combination of LDH release assays and DRAQ7 staining allowed comprehensive evaluation of toxin cytotoxicity, which was only observed after exposure to melittin and ochratoxin A. Furthermore, the study of actin cytoskeleton allowed to assess toxin-induced changes in cell morphology, which were only caused by nigericin. Altogether, our study highlights the potential of our Caco-2 tubular model in becoming a multi-parametric and high-throughput tool to bridge the gap between current enterotoxin research and translatable in vivo models of the human intestinal epithelium.

Approaches to nonlinear curve fitting in laboratory medicine

Nonlinear curve fitting is an important process in laboratory medicine, particularly with the increased use of highly sensitive antibody-based assays. Although the process is often automated in commercially available software, it is important that clinical scientists and physicians recognize the limitations of the various approaches used and are able to select the most appropriate model. This article summarizes the key nonlinear functions and demonstrates their application to common laboratory data. Following this, a basic overview of the statistical comparison of models is presented and then a discussion of important algorithms used in nonlinear curve fitting. An accompanying Microsoft Excel workbook is available that can be used to explore the content of this article.

Dog and cat exposures to drugs of abuse identified by the California animal health and food safety laboratory system 2013-2023

Introduction

While known animal exposures to human "drugs of abuse" (DA) were previously considered relatively uncommon in veterinary medicine, the trends are changing. Marijuana and amphetamines are among the 20 toxicants most frequently consulted about with the Pet Poison Helpline. When such exposures occur, they are typically considered emergencies.

Methods

This retrospective study describes confirmed cases of DA exposure in pets from the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), 2013-2023.

Results

Fifty-seven samples tested positive for DA through liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry analysis (qualitative method). In 75% (43/57) of the DA screen tests, the detected drugs included amphetamine-type stimulants and metabolites (methamphetamine, amphetamine, or both). In 47% (27/57) of cases, a combination of more than one drug group was found. Most cases were diagnosed from a urine specimen. In at least 32% (18/57) of cases, the samples were submitted due to suspicions of animal cruelty, and at least 41% (23/57) of the patients were deceased when the samples were submitted.

Discussion

More studies on the prevalence of illicit drugs in small animals, using confirmatory testing, are warranted to fully understand the significance of this emerging toxicological hazard in veterinary medicine.

Paliperidone poisoning and measurable plasma concentrations 2.5 years after last administered dose: A case report

We report a poisoning with paliperidone palmitate, a once-monthly, long-acting injectable antipsychotic. The patient suffered from deep sedation and dystonia. She had been treated with extended release intramuscular paliperidone for several years and had received her last injection 8 days prior to admission. The plasma paliperidone was nearly five times higher than the upper reference range. Paliperidone is a substrate of p-glycoprotein and we therefore aimed to increase its elimination by inducing p-glycoprotein through treatment with St John's wort. This seemed to have a limited effect on paliperidone clearance. Plasma concentration levels decreased with time as did the dystonia. All antipsychotic treatment was discontinued after this unfortunate event, and the patient did specifically not receive any prescriptions of paliperidone or risperidone. However, the plasma paliperidone concentration was in the low end of the normal therapeutic range 2.5 years after the last dose of paliperidone was administered, and the patient still had some extrapyramidal symptoms.

RCEM best practice guideline: suspected cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome in emergency departments

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is an episodic syndrome of cyclic vomiting in the context of the prolonged use of cannabis. The Royal College of Emergency Medicine Toxicology Special Interest Group has produced guidance to support emergency medicine clinicians with the recognition and treatment of people experiencing CHS.Considerations regarding recognition, investigation and communication are discussed, and recommendations regarding treatment options (which include haloperidol and capsaicin) are made. There is a focus on making recommendations on the best available evidence.

A Comparative Study of New Fluorescent Anthraquinone and Benzanthrone α-Aminophosphonates: Synthesis, Spectroscopy, Toxicology, X-ray Crystallography, and Microscopy of Opisthorchis felineus

In this research, we explore the synthesis of and characterize α-aminophosphonates derived from anthraquinone and benzanthrone, focusing on their fluorescence properties and potential applications in confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The synthesized compounds exhibit notable solvatochromic behavior, emitting fluorescence from green to red across various solvents. Spectroscopic analysis, including 1H-, 13C-, and 31P-NMR, FTIR, and mass spectrometry, confirms the chemical structures. The compounds' toxicity is evaluated using etiolated wheat sprouts, revealing varying degrees of impact on growth and oxidative damage. Furthermore, the study introduces these α-aminophosphonates for CLSM imaging of the parasitic flatworm Opisthorchis felineus, demonstrating their potential in visualizing biological specimens. Additionally, an X-ray crystallographic study of an anthraquinone α-aminophosphonate provides valuable structural insights.

Report of the First ONTOX Stakeholder Network Meeting: Digging Under the Surface of ONTOX Together With the Stakeholders

The first Stakeholder Network Meeting of the EU Horizon 2020-funded ONTOX project was held on 13-14 March 2023, in Brussels, Belgium. The discussion centred around identifying specific challenges, barriers and drivers in relation to the implementation of non-animal new approach methodologies (NAMs) and probabilistic risk assessment (PRA), in order to help address the issues and rank them according to their associated level of difficulty. ONTOX aims to advance the assessment of chemical risk to humans, without the use of animal testing, by developing non-animal NAMs and PRA in line with 21st century toxicity testing principles. Stakeholder groups (regulatory authorities, companies, academia, non-governmental organisations) were identified and invited to participate in a meeting and a survey, by which their current position in relation to the implementation of NAMs and PRA was ascertained, as well as specific challenges and drivers highlighted. The survey analysis revealed areas of agreement and disagreement among stakeholders on topics such as capacity building, sustainability, regulatory acceptance, validation of adverse outcome pathways, acceptance of artificial intelligence (AI) in risk assessment, and guaranteeing consumer safety. The stakeholder network meeting resulted in the identification of barriers, drivers and specific challenges that need to be addressed. Breakout groups discussed topics such as hazard versus risk assessment, future reliance on AI and machine learning, regulatory requirements for industry and sustainability of the ONTOX Hub platform. The outputs from these discussions provided insights for overcoming barriers and leveraging drivers for implementing NAMs and PRA. It was concluded that there is a continued need for stakeholder engagement, including the organisation of a 'hackathon' to tackle challenges, to ensure the successful implementation of NAMs and PRA in chemical risk assessment.

The gender composition of the members of the editorial board of toxicology journals: Assessment of gender equality

In many areas of medicine, gender equality has not yet been fully adopted despite recent developments. The inequality of gender in various areas of medicine is still debated. In this study, we analysed the gender composition of the editorial boards of toxicology journals in the Science Citation Index-Expanded (SCI-E) databases and the factors affecting this composition. The genders of the participants were determined by the data obtained from the official websites of the journals in September 2023. We analysed the journal metrics and publisher properties using Mann-Whitney U, Fisher's exact, Chi-square tests and Spearman's correlation coefficient. We used logistic regression analysis to reveal the independent factors related to gender parity. The representation rates of women were 28.62% on all editorial boards and 23.33% in editor-in-chief positions. The 'Neuroscience' (OR, 2.46 95%CI, 1.68-3.60, p < 0.001), 'Reproductive Biology'(OR, 2.05 95%CI, 1.22-3.42, p = 0.006) and 'Public, Environmental & Occupational Health'(OR, 1.49 95%CI, 1.18-1.88, p = 0.001) as a coverage category, the United States as a journal country (OR, 1.21, 95%CI, 1.04-1.40, p = 0.001), 5-year-IF≥3.6(OR, 1.54, 95%CI, 1.27-1.86, p < 0.001), 5-year H index≥29 (OR, 1.23, 95%CI, 1.01-1.49, p = 0.037) were the independent factors for gender parity. However, 'Oncology' (OR, 0.08 95%CI, 0.01-0.55, p = 0.011), 'Biochemistry, Molecular Biology' (OR, 0.62 95%CI, 0.44-0.86, p = 0.005) and 'Pharmacology & Pharmacy' (OR, 0.69 95%CI, 0.59-0.82, p < 0.001) as a coverage category, Japan as a publisher country (OR, 0.52 95%CI, 0.35-0.77, p = 0.001), and Switzerland as a journal country (OR, 0.61, 95%CI, 0.46-0.81, p = 0.001) were related to gender disparity. Greater endeavours are needed to reduce gender discrimination in toxicology. Toxicology authorities should continuously improve existing policies by optimising the analysis of objective information to eliminate barriers for toxicologists in terms of gender equality.

Tanshinone IIA ameliorates cisplatin-induced toxicology and cisplatin resistance via regulating SLC7A11 expression

Cisplatin, a potent chemotherapy agent, is highly effective against various cancers but is hindered by resistance and toxicities. This study aims to investigate the roles of SLC7A11, a cystine/glutamate transporter, in cisplatin resistance, and explored Tanshinone IIA as a therapeutic option. Cisplatin reduced SLC7A11 in renal cells, worsening toxicity. Cisplatin-resistant gastric cancer cells show increased SLC7A11, driving resistance, while SLC7A11 knockdown curbed resistance. Tanshinone IIA showed promise in alleviating cisplatin toxicity by enhancing SLC7A11 expression and reducing associated adverse effects, while it effectively reversed cisplatin resistance in gastric cancer cells by suppressing SLC7A11. Additionally, Tanshinone IIA counteracted cisplatin resistance by inhibiting PIAS4-mediated SUMOylation of SLC7A11. Simultaneously, overexpressing miR-375, which has been shown to target SLC7A11, exacerbated cisplatin toxicity via SLC7A11 downregulation, which Tanshinone IIA attenuates. In summary, our study unveils complex SLC7A11 regulation in cisplatin resistance and toxicity. Tanshinone IIA emerges as a promising modulator of SLC7A11 through individual pathways, offering novel insights into overcoming cisplatin resistance and reducing toxicities in cancer therapy.

Elevated Osmolal Gap in a Case of Multiple Myeloma

BACKGROUND

The estimated serum osmolality is a measurement of solutes in the blood, including sodium, glucose, and urea, but also includes ethanol and toxic alcohols (e.g., methanol, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, isopropyl alcohol, propylene glycol) when present. These rarely measured toxic alcohols can elevate the serum osmolality, giving the true measured osmolality. The difference between that and a calculated osmolality is the osmolal gap, which can be elevated in many clinical scenarios such as renal failure, ingestion of toxic alcohols, diabetic ketoacidosis, shock, and others.

CASE REPORT

We report a patient with a history of alcohol use disorder who came to the Emergency Department with an abnormally elevated osmolal gap in the setting of altered mental status. The patient's increased osmolal gap was further investigated while he was promptly treated with fomepizole, thiamine, and urgent hemodialysis. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: We discuss the differential diagnosis for substances that increase the osmolal gap with respective ranges of elevation. This case demonstrates that although osmolal gap elevation is often attributed to the presence of toxic alcohols, other common etiologies may account for the gap, including acute renal failure and multiple myeloma.

A multicentre case series of analytically confirmed gamma-hydroxybutyrate intoxications in Western Australian emergency departments: Pre-hospital circumstances, co-detections and clinical outcomes

INTRODUCTION

Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) use is associated with high risk of accidental overdose. This study examined the pre-hospital circumstances, demographic characteristics and clinical outcomes of analytically confirmed GHB emergency department (ED) presentations in Western Australia (WA).

METHODS

This case series was conducted across three WA EDs involved in the Emerging Drugs Network of Australia, from April 2020 to July 2022. Patient demographics, pre-hospital drug exposure circumstances and ED presentation and outcome characteristics were collected from ambulance and hospital medical records of GHB-confirmed cases.

RESULTS

GHB was detected in 45 ED presentations. The median age was 34 years and 53.3% (n = 24) were female. Most patients arrived at the ED by ambulance (n = 37, 85.7%) and required immediate emergency care (Australasian Triage Score 1 or 2 = 97.8%). One-third of patients were admitted to intensive care (n = 14, 31.1%). Methylamphetamine was co-detected in 37 (82.2%) GHB-confirmed cases. Reduced conscious state was indicated by first recorded Glasgow Coma Scale of ≤8 (n = 29, 64.4%) and observations of patients becoming, or being found, 'unresponsive' and 'unconscious' in various pre-hospital settings (n = 28, 62.2%). 'Agitated' and/or 'erratic' mental state and behavioural observations were recorded in 20 (44.4%) cases.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Analytically verified data from ED presentations with acute toxicity provides an objective information source on drug use trends and emerging public health threats. In our study, patients presenting to WA EDs with GHB intoxication were acutely unwell, often requiring intensive care treatment. The unexpectedly high proportion of female GHB intoxications and methylamphetamine co-ingestion warrants further exploration.

Successful treatment of a severe 5-hydroxytrytophan intoxication using carbon hemoperfusion, hemodiafiltration, and mechanical ventilation in a dog

OBJECTIVE

To describe the successful use of carbon hemoperfusion and hemodiafiltration in combination with mechanical ventilation (MV) to treat a severe intoxication of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) in a dog.

CASE SUMMARY

A dog ingested a minimum of 550 mg/kg of extended-release 5-HTP, resulting in serotonin syndrome that progressed to a comatose state and severe hypoventilation requiring MV. Extracorporeal carbon hemoperfusion coupled with hemodiafiltration was performed to remove 5-HTP from this patient. A carbon hemoperfusion cartridge was placed in series upstream in the extracorporeal circuit from the hemodialyzer. A total of 46.5 L of blood (4.89 L/kg) was processed during a 4.85-hour treatment. Serial plasma samples were obtained at 0, 60, 90, and 150 minutes during the session and 14 hours after the session. These samples were later analyzed for 5-HTP and serotonin concentrations. The extraction ratio of 5-HTP was 93.6%-98.9% through the carbon filter. The dog was weaned from MV within 8 hours after extracorporeal therapy and, after a full recovery, was successfully discharged.

NEW OR UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED

Despite an extensive review of the available literature, this appears to be the first reported case of using a carbon hemoperfusion, hemodiafiltration, and MV to treat severe serotonin syndrome secondary to 5-HTP intoxication in a dog. The combination of carbon hemoperfusion and hemodiafiltration can significantly reduce plasma 5-HTP concentrations after acute intoxication and may serve to decrease morbidity and mortality in patients with severe intoxication.

A descriptive coronial study of heroin toxicity deaths in Australia, 2020-2022: Characteristics, toxicology and survival times

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Mortality rates among people who use heroin are estimated to be 15 times that of the general population. The study aimed to determine (1) the case characteristics and circumstances of death of heroin-related toxicity deaths in Australia, 2020-2022; (2) their toxicological profile and major autopsy findings; (3) the proportion of cases in which blood 6-acetyl morphine (6AM) was detected, as a proxy measure of survival times; and (4) compare 6AM positive and negative cases on toxicology, circumstances of death and acute clinical presentation.

DESIGN

Retrospective study of heroin toxicity deaths in Australia, 2020-2022, retrieved from the National Coronial Information System.

SETTING

This study was conducted Australia-wide.

CASES

There were 610 cases of fatal heroin-related drug toxicity.

MEASUREMENTS

Information was collected on characteristics, manner of death, toxicology and autopsy results.

FINDINGS

The mean age was 42.6 years (range 18-73 years), 80.5% were male and 7.5% were enrolled in a drug treatment programme. The circumstances of death were as follows: unintentional drug toxicity (86.2%), combined unintentional drug toxicity/disease (11.3%) and intentional drug toxicity (2.5%). The median free morphine concentration was 0.17 mg/L (range 0.00-4.20 mg/L). Psychoactive drugs other than heroin were present in 95.2% (Confidence Interval 93.1%-96.8%), most commonly hypnosedatives (62.3%, 58.2%-66.4%) and psychostimulants (44.8%, 40.7%-49.1%). Major autopsy findings of clinical significance included acute bronchopneumonia (14.8%, 11.3%-18.8%), emphysema (16.9%, 13.2%-21.1%), cardiomegaly (30.1%, 12.7%-28.2%), coronary artery disease (27.4%, 23.0%-32.3%), coronary replacement fibrosis (13.4%, 10.1%-17.3%), hepatic cirrhosis (8.8%, 6.6%-12.2%) and renal fibrosis (10.3%, 7.3%-14.0%). In 47.0% (42.3%-51.2%), 6AM was present in blood.

CONCLUSIONS

The 'typical' heroin overdose case in Australia from 2020 to 2022 was a male who injected heroin, aged in the 40s, not enrolled in a treatment programme and had used multiple drugs. In over half of cases, there had been a sufficient survival time for 6-acetyl morphine to have been metabolised, which may indicate times in excess of 20-30 min.

Aluminum exposure alters the pedal mucous secretions of the chocolate-band snail, Eobania vermiculata (Gastropoda: Helicidae)

Aluminum (Al) is used in everyday life and present in food drugs, packaging, industry, and agriculture. Although it is the most common metal in the Earth crust, a correlation has been demonstrated between its presence and various pathologies, even serious ones, especially of a neurological type. However, there is a histological gap regarding the role Al can have in contact with the covering and secreting epithelia. The alterations of the ventral and dorsal foot mucocytes and their secretions of the snail Eobania vermiculata caused by Al were investigated in situ by histochemical and lectin-histochemical techniques. Administration to different experimental groups took place for 3 and 9 days with 50 and 200 μM of AlCl3 . Several types of mucocytes were detected with a prevalent secretion of acid glycans in the foot of E. vermiculata. Sulfated glycans prevail in the dorsal region, with one type showing only fucosylated residues and another also having galactosaminylated and glycosaminylated residues. Carboxylated glycans prevail in the ventral region, with presence of galactosaminylated, glycosaminylated, and fucosylated residuals in both cells. Snails treated presented a general decrease of mucin amount in the secreting cells and affected the mucus composition. These changes could alter the rheological and functional properties of the mucus with possible implications for the health of the treated animals. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Snails were fed with Al-contaminated lettuce at different concentrations. In the foot mucocytes produced mucus with prevailing acidic glycans. In the treated resulted a reduction in the amount of mucus and an alteration of glycan composition.

Rapid Screening of 34 Emerging Contaminants in Surface Water by UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS

OBJECTIVES

To establish a rapid screening method for 34 emerging contaminants in surface water by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time of flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF-MS).

METHODS

The pretreatment conditions of solid phase extraction (SPE) were optimized by orthogonal experimental design and the surface water samples were concentrated and extracted by Oasis® HLB and Oasis® MCX SPE columns in series. The extracts were separated by Kinetex® EVO C18 column, with gradient elution of 0.1% formic acid aqueous solution and 0.1% formic acid methanol solution. Q-TOF-MS 'fullscan' and 'targeted MS/MS' modes were used to detect 34 emerging contaminants and to establish a database with 34 emerging contaminants precursor ion, product ion and retention times.

RESULTS

The 34 emerging contaminants exhibited good linearity in the concentration range respectively and the correlation coefficients (r) were higher than 0.97. The limit of detection was 0.2-10 ng/L and the recoveries were 81.2%-119.2%. The intra-day precision was 0.78%-18.70%. The method was applied to analyze multiple surface water samples and 6 emerging contaminants were detected, with a concentration range of 1.93-157.71 ng/L.

CONCLUSIONS

The method is simple and rapid for screening various emerging contaminants at the trace level in surface water.

Toxicokinetics of MDMA and Its Metabolite MDA in Rats

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the toxicokinetic differences of 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA) and its metabolite 4,5-methylene dioxy amphetamine (MDA) in rats after single and continuous administration of MDMA, providing reference data for the forensic identification of MDMA.

METHODS

A total of 24 rats in the single administration group were randomly divided into 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg experimental groups and the control group, with 6 rats in each group. The experimental group was given intraperitoneal injection of MDMA, and the control group was given intraperitoneal injection of the same volume of normal saline as the experimental group. The amount of 0.5 mL blood was collected from the medial canthus 5 min, 30 min, 1 h, 1.5 h, 2 h, 4 h, 6 h, 8 h, 10 h, 12 h after administration. In the continuous administration group, 24 rats were randomly divided into the experimental group (18 rats) and the control group (6 rats). The experimental group was given MDMA 7 d by continuous intraperitoneal injection in increments of 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17 mg/kg per day, respectively, while the control group was given the same volume of normal saline as the experimental group by intraperitoneal injection. On the eighth day, the experimental rats were randomly divided into 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg dose groups, with 6 rats in each group. MDMA was injected intraperitoneally, and the control group was injected intraperitoneally with the same volume of normal saline as the experimental group. On the eighth day, 0.5 mL of blood was taken from the medial canthus 5 min, 30 min, 1 h, 1.5 h, 2 h, 4 h, 6 h, 8 h, 10 h, 12 h after administration. Liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry was used to detect MDMA and MDA levels, and statistical software was employed for data analysis.

RESULTS

In the single-administration group, peak concentrations of MDMA and MDA were reached at 5 min and 1 h after administration, respectively, with the largest detection time limit of 12 h. In the continuous administration group, peak concentrations were reached at 30 min and 1.5 h after administration, respectively, with the largest detection time limit of 10 h. Nonlinear fitting equations for the concentration ratio of MDMA and MDA in plasma and administration time in the single-administration group and continuous administration group were as follows: T=10.362C-1.183, R2=0.974 6; T=7.397 3C-0.694, R2=0.961 5 (T: injection time; C: concentration ratio of MDMA to MDA in plasma).

CONCLUSIONS

The toxicokinetic data of MDMA and its metabolite MDA in rats, obtained through single and continuous administration, including peak concentration, peak time, detection time limit, and the relationship between concentration ratio and administration time, provide a theoretical and data foundation for relevant forensic identification.

Scopoletin: a review of its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity

Scopoletin is a coumarin synthesized by diverse medicinal and edible plants, which plays a vital role as a therapeutic and chemopreventive agent in the treatment of a variety of diseases. In this review, an overview of the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity of scopoletin is provided. In addition, the prospects and outlook for future studies are appraised. Scopoletin is indicated to have antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammation, anti-angiogenesis, anti-oxidation, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective properties and immunomodulatory effects in both in vitro and in vivo experimental trials. In addition, it is an inhibitor of various enzymes, including choline acetyltransferase, acetylcholinesterase, and monoamine oxidase. Pharmacokinetic studies have demonstrated the low bioavailability, rapid absorption, and extensive metabolism of scopoletin. These properties may be associated with its poor solubility in aqueous media. In addition, toxicity research indicates the non-toxicity of scopoletin to most cell types tested to date, suggesting that scopoletin will neither induce treatment-associated mortality nor abnormal performance with the test dose. Considering its favorable pharmacological activities, scopoletin has the potential to act as a drug candidate in the treatment of cancer, liver disease, diabetes, neurodegenerative disease, and mental disorders. In view of its merits and limitations, scopoletin is a suitable lead compound for the development of new, efficient, and low-toxicity derivatives. Additional studies are needed to explore its molecular mechanisms and targets, verify its toxicity, and promote its oral bioavailability.

Research Progress in Traditional Applications, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Safety Evaluation of Cynomorium songaricum

Cynomorium songaricum Rupr. (CSR) belongs to the family Cynomoriaceae. It is a perennial succulent parasitic herb with a reddish-brown coloration, predominantly submerged in sand and lacking chlorophyll. Traditionally, it has been used in ethnic medicine to treat various diseases, such as gastric ulcers, indigestion, bowel movements, and improving sexual function. To comprehensively collect CSR data, extensive literature searches were conducted using medical, ecological, and scientific databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). This article summarizes and categorizes research on the uses, phytochemical characteristics, pharmacological activities, and toxicity of ethnic medicine, with the aim of establishing a solid foundation and proposing new avenues for exploring and developing potential applications of CSR. So far, a total of 98 compounds have been isolated and identified from CSR, including flavonoids, terpenes, steroids, and other compounds. It is worth noting that flavonoids and polysaccharides have significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, these compounds also show good application prospects in anti-tumor, antioxidant, anti-aging, anti-fatigue, anti-diabetes, and other aspects. Although extensive progress has been made in the basic research of CSR, further research is still needed to enhance the understanding of its mechanism of action and explore more unknown compounds. Our review indicates that CSR has broad prospects and deserves further research.

Comparative Impact of Various Fasting Periods on the Welfare of Sprague-Dawley Rats With or Without Supplementation

In nonclinical toxicology studies, lab animals are fasted typically overnight, to reduce variability in some clinical pathology parameters. However, fasting adds undue stress, and this is particularly concerning in rodents given their fast metabolic rates. Furthermore, as rodents are nocturnal animals, an overnight fasting may cause a protracted negative metabolic state even when the fasting has technically ended, given their minimal activity and food consumption during the day. Therefore, to evaluate the impacts of different fasting durations (±DietGel supplementation) on rats' welfare, we assessed the traditional and ancillary clinical pathology parameters in Sprague-Dawley rats, along with body weight, organ weight, and histopathology. Although most endpoints were comparable between the different fasting durations (±DietGel supplementation), the long fasting times (≥8 hr) without DietGel supplementation caused significant decreases in body weight, liver weight, liver glycogen content, serum glucose, triglyceride, and creatinine concentrations-all findings suggestive of a negative energy balance that could impact animal welfare and consequently, data quality; while the short fasting time (4 hr) and DietGel supplementation were associated with higher triglycerides variability. Hence, we propose that short fasting time should be adequate for most toxicology studies in rats, and long fasting times should only be accommodated with scientific justification.

Ayahuasca and Dimethyltryptamine Adverse Events and Toxicity Analysis: A Systematic Thematic Review

The objective of this paper is to conduct a systematic thematic review of adverse events, safety, and toxicity of traditional ayahuasca plant preparations and its main psychoactive alkaloids (dimethyltryptamine [DMT], harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine), including discussing clinical considerations (within clinical trials or approved settings). A systematic literature search of preclinical, clinical, epidemiological, and pharmacovigilance data (as well as pertinent reviews and case studies) was conducted for articles using the electronic databases of PubMed and Web of Science (to 6 July 2023) and PsycINFO, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Embase (to 21 September 2022) and included articles in English in peer-reviewed journals. Additionally, reference lists were searched. Due to the breadth of the area covered, we presented the relevant data in a thematic format. Our searches revealed 78 relevant articles. Data showed that ayahuasca or DMT is generally safe; however, some adverse human events have been reported. Animal models using higher doses of ayahuasca have shown abortifacient and teratogenic effects. Isolated harmala alkaloid studies have also revealed evidence of potential toxicity at higher doses, which may increase with co-administration with certain medications. Harmaline revealed the most issues in preclinical models. Nevertheless, animal models involving higher-dose synthetic isolates may not necessarily be able to be extrapolated to human use of therapeutic doses of plant-based extracts. Serious adverse effects are rarely reported within healthy populations, indicating an acceptable safety profile for the traditional use of ayahuasca and DMT in controlled settings. Further randomized, controlled trials with judicious blinding, larger samples, and longer duration are needed.

Kaempferol mitigates reproductive dysfunctions induced by Naja nigricollis venom through antioxidant system and anti-inflammatory response in male rats

Naja nigricollis Venom (NnV) contains complex toxins that affects various vital systems functions after envenoming. The venom toxins have been reported to induce male reproductive disorders in envenomed rats. This present study explored the ameliorative potential of kaempferol on NnV-induced male reproductive toxicity. Fifty male wistar rats were sorted randomly into five groups (n = 10) for this study. Group 1 were noted as the control, while rats in groups 2 to 5 were injected with LD50 of NnV (1.0 mg/kg bw; i.p.). Group 2 was left untreated post envenomation while group 3 was treated with 0.2 ml of polyvalent antivenom. Groups 4 and 5 were treated with 4 and 8 mg/kg of kaempferol, respectively. NnV caused substantial reduction in concentrations of follicle stimulating hormone, testosterone and luteinizing hormone, while sperm motility, volume and counts significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in envenomed untreated rats. The venom enhanced malondialdehyde levels and substantially decreased glutathione levels, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities in the testes and epididymis of envenomed untreated rats. Additionally, epididymal and testicular myeloperoxidase activity and nitric oxide levels were elevated which substantiated severe morphological defects noticed in the reproductive organs. However, treatment of envenomed rats with kaempferol normalized the reproductive hormones with significant improvement on sperm functional parameters. Elevated inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers in testis and epididymis were suppressed post kaempferol treatment. Severe histopathological lesions in the epididymal and testicular tissues were ameliorated in the envenomed treated groups. Results highlights the significance of kaempferol in mitigating reproductive toxicity induced after snakebite envenoming.

Understanding the Interaction between Nanomaterials Originated from High-Temperature Processed Starch/Myristic Acid and Human Monocyte Cells

High-temperature cooking approaches trigger many metabolically undesirable molecule formations, which pose health risks. As a result, nanomaterial formation has been observed while cooking and reported recently. At high temperatures, starch and myristic acid interact and lead to the creation of nanomaterials (cMS-NMs). We used a non-polar solvent chloroform to separate the nanomaterials using a liquid-liquid extraction technique. The physico-chemical characterization was carried out using dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). To determine the biological impact of these nanomaterials using different in vitro assays, including a cell viability assay, microscopic staining, and gene expression analysis, we adopted the THP-1 cell line as an in vitro monocyte model in our study. The TEM images revealed that fabricated cMS nanomaterials are smaller than 100 nm in diameter. There were significant concerns found in the cytotoxicity assay and gene expression analysis. At concentrations of 100-250 µg/mL, the cMS-NMs caused up to 95% cell death. We found both necrosis and apoptosis in cMS-NMs treated THP-1 cells. In cMS-NMs-treated THP-1 cells, we found decreased expression levels in IL1B and NFKB1A genes and significant upregulation in MIF genes, suggesting a negative immune response. These findings strongly suggest that cMS-NMs originated from high-temperature food processing can cause adverse effects on biological systems. Therefore, charred materials in processed foods should be avoided in order to minimize the risk of health complications.