Journal Description
Journal of Xenobiotics
Journal of Xenobiotics
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on xenobiotics published quarterly online by MDPI (from Volume 10, Issue 1 - 2020).
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, CAPlus / SciFinder, Embase, and other databases
- Journal Rank: CiteScore - Q2 (Pollution)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 21.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review and reviewer names are published annually in the journal.
Impact Factor:
6.0 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
5.0 (2022)
Latest Articles
How Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances Affect Gamete Viability and Fertilization Capability: Insights from the Literature
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(2), 651-678; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14020038 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
There has been emerging research linking per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to gamete viability and fertility. PFAS, prevalent in the environment and water supplies, undergo slow degradation due to their C-F bond and a long half-life (2.3–8.5 years). In females, PFAS inhibit the
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There has been emerging research linking per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to gamete viability and fertility. PFAS, prevalent in the environment and water supplies, undergo slow degradation due to their C-F bond and a long half-life (2.3–8.5 years). In females, PFAS inhibit the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis, reducing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, leading to the inhibition of androgen and estradiol production. PFAS have been found to cause detrimental effects on egg quality through impairing folliculogenesis. In males, PFAS can impair sperm motility and morphology: two fundamental qualities of successful fertilization. PFAS exposure has been proven to inhibit testosterone production, sperm capacitation, and acrosomal reaction. After fertilization, the results of PFAS exposure to embryos have also been investigated, showing reduced development to the blastocyst stage. The aim of this review is to report the main findings in the literature on the impact of PFAS exposure to gamete competency and fertilization capability by highlighting key studies on both male and female fertility. We report that there is significant evidence demonstrating the negative impacts on fertility after PFAS exposure. At high doses, these environmentally abundant and widespread compounds can significantly affect human fertility.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals in the Human Health)
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Heavy Metal(oid)s Contamination and Potential Ecological Risk Assessment in Agricultural Soils
by
Muhammad Saleem, David Pierce, Yuqiang Wang, Donald A. Sens, Seema Somji and Scott H. Garrett
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(2), 634-650; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14020037 - 14 May 2024
Abstract
Soil pollution caused by heavy metal(oid)s has generated great concern worldwide due to their toxicity, persistence, and bio-accumulation properties. To assess the baseline data, the heavy metal(oid)s, including manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), lead
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Soil pollution caused by heavy metal(oid)s has generated great concern worldwide due to their toxicity, persistence, and bio-accumulation properties. To assess the baseline data, the heavy metal(oid)s, including manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), Cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), chromium (Cr), and cadmium (Cd), were evaluated in surface soil samples collected from the farmlands of Grand Forks County, North Dakota. Samples were digested via acid mixture and analyzed via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP MS) analysis to assess the levels, ecological risks, and possible sources. The heavy metal(oid) median levels exhibited the following decreasing trend: Fe > Mn > Zn > Ni > Cr > Cu > Pb > Co > As > Cd > Hg. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) suggested the main lithogenic source for the studied metal(oid)s. Metal(oid) levels in the current investigation, except Mn, are lower than most of the guideline values set by international agencies. The contamination factor (Cf), geo accumulation index (Igeo) and enrichment factor (EF) showed considerable contamination, moderate contamination, and significant enrichment, respectively, for As and Cd on median value basis. Ecological risk factor (Er) results exhibited low ecological risk for all studied metal(oid)s except Cd, which showed considerable ecological risk. The potential ecological risk index (PERI) levels indicated low ecological risk to considerable risk. Overall, the results indicate the accumulation of As and Cd in the study area. The high nutrients of the soils potentially affect their accumulation in crops and impact on consumers’ health. This drives the impetus for continued environmental monitoring programs.
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(This article belongs to the Section Ecotoxicology)
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Traditional Plant-Derived Compounds Inhibit Cell Migration and Induce Novel Cytoskeletal Effects in Glioblastoma Cells
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Evan Thompson, Sally Prior and Anke Brüning-Richardson
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(2), 613-633; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14020036 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Glioblastomas (GBMs) are aggressive and invasive cancers of the brain, associated with high rates of tumour recurrence and poor patient outcomes despite initial treatment. Targeting cell migration is therefore of interest in highly invasive cancers such as GBMs, to prevent tumour dissemination and
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Glioblastomas (GBMs) are aggressive and invasive cancers of the brain, associated with high rates of tumour recurrence and poor patient outcomes despite initial treatment. Targeting cell migration is therefore of interest in highly invasive cancers such as GBMs, to prevent tumour dissemination and regrowth. One current aim of GBM research focuses on assessing the anti-migratory properties of novel or repurposed inhibitors, including plant-based drugs which display anti-cancer properties. We investigated the potential anti-migratory activity of plant-based products with known cytotoxic effects in cancers, using a range of two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) migration and invasion assays as well as immunofluorescence microscopy to determine the specific anti-migratory and phenotypic effects of three plant-derived compounds, Turmeric, Indigo and Magnolia bark, on established glioma cell lines. Migrastatic activity was observed in all three drugs, with Turmeric exerting the most inhibitory effect on GBM cell migration into scratches and from the spheroid edge at all the timepoints investigated (p < 0.001). We also observed novel cytoskeletal phenotypes affecting actin and the focal adhesion dynamics. As our in vitro results determined that Turmeric, Indigo and Magnolia are promising migrastatic drugs, we suggest additional experimentation at the whole organism level to further validate these novel findings.
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(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products/Herbal Medicines)
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Aminomethylphosphonic Acid (AMPA), a Glyphosate Metabolite, Decreases Plasma Cholinesterase Activity in Rats
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Jesús Chávez-Reyes, Fernando Saráchaga-Terrazas, Oliver Alejandro Colis-Arenas, Carlos H. López-Lariz, Carlos M. Villalón and Bruno A. Marichal-Cancino
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(2), 604-612; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14020035 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
Glyphosate, a widely used herbicide, is linked to a plethora of deleterious effects in both clinical and preclinical studies. Nevertheless, the effects of its main metabolite, aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA), whose half-life in soil is even longer than that of glyphosate, have been little
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Glyphosate, a widely used herbicide, is linked to a plethora of deleterious effects in both clinical and preclinical studies. Nevertheless, the effects of its main metabolite, aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA), whose half-life in soil is even longer than that of glyphosate, have been little explored. On this basis, as a first approach, in this work, we report that intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of AMPA or glyphosate (at 10, 56, and 100 mg/kg) decreased, to a similar extent, plasma cholinesterase (ChE) activity in acutely exposed rats. Moreover, we designed an experimental protocol to analyze and compare the effects of AMPA and glyphosate on human plasma ChE activity; this protocol consisted of adding these compounds to human plasma to subsequently test the effects of this plasma on the contraction to acetylcholine (ACh) in the frog rectus abdominis muscle (an indirect estimate of ChE activity). Accordingly, this muscular contraction to ACh was evaluated before and after pre-incubation of ACh with (i) plasma alone, (ii) plasma with AMPA, and (iii) plasma with glyphosate. Our results indicate that AMPA, like glyphosate, decreased ChE activity in the plasma of rats (when given i.p.) and humans (when added in vitro), suggesting that both xenobiotics may exert similar toxicological effects.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Disease Risks and Toxic Pathway from Environmental Chemical Exposure)
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Open AccessReview
Pleiotropy of Progesterone Receptor Membrane Component 1 in Modulation of Cytochrome P450 Activity
by
Isabel S. Barata, José Rueff, Michel Kranendonk and Francisco Esteves
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(2), 575-603; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14020034 - 1 May 2024
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Progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) is one of few proteins that have been recently described as direct modulators of the activity of human cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP)s. These enzymes form a superfamily of membrane-bound hemoproteins that metabolize a wide variety of physiological,
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Progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) is one of few proteins that have been recently described as direct modulators of the activity of human cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP)s. These enzymes form a superfamily of membrane-bound hemoproteins that metabolize a wide variety of physiological, dietary, environmental, and pharmacological compounds. Modulation of CYP activity impacts the detoxification of xenobiotics as well as endogenous pathways such as steroid and fatty acid metabolism, thus playing a central role in homeostasis. This review is focused on nine main topics that include the most relevant aspects of past and current PGRMC1 research, focusing on its role in CYP-mediated drug metabolism. Firstly, a general overview of the main aspects of xenobiotic metabolism is presented (I), followed by an overview of the role of the CYP enzymatic complex (IIa), a section on human disorders associated with defects in CYP enzyme complex activity (IIb), and a brief account of cytochrome b5 (cyt b5)’s effect on CYP activity (IIc). Subsequently, we present a background overview of the history of the molecular characterization of PGRMC1 (III), regarding its structure, expression, and intracellular location (IIIa), and its heme-binding capability and dimerization (IIIb). The next section reflects the different effects PGRMC1 may have on CYP activity (IV), presenting a description of studies on the direct effects on CYP activity (IVa), and a summary of pathways in which PGRMC1’s involvement may indirectly affect CYP activity (IVb). The last section of the review is focused on the current challenges of research on the effect of PGRMC1 on CYP activity (V), presenting some future perspectives of research in the field (VI).
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Open AccessArticle
Screening Disinfection Byproducts in Arid-Coastal Wastewater: A Workflow Using GC×GC-TOFMS, Passive Sampling, and NMF Deconvolution Algorithm
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Muhammad Usman Siddiqui, Muhammad Sibtain, Farrukh Ahmad, Yasuyuki Zushi and Deedar Nabi
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(2), 554-574; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14020033 - 1 May 2024
Abstract
Disinfection during tertiary municipal wastewater treatment is a necessary step to control the spread of pathogens; unfortunately, it also gives rise to numerous disinfection byproducts (DBPs), only a few of which are regulated because of the analytical challenges associated with the vast number
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Disinfection during tertiary municipal wastewater treatment is a necessary step to control the spread of pathogens; unfortunately, it also gives rise to numerous disinfection byproducts (DBPs), only a few of which are regulated because of the analytical challenges associated with the vast number of potential DBPs. This study utilized polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) passive samplers, comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC) coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOFMS), and non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) spectral deconvolution for suspect screening of DBPs in treated wastewater. PDMS samplers were deployed upstream and downstream of the chlorination unit in a municipal wastewater treatment plant located in Abu Dhabi, and their extracts were analyzed using GC×GC-TOFMS. A workflow incorporating a multi-tiered, eight-filter screening process was developed, which successfully enabled the reliable isolation of 22 candidate DBPs from thousands of peaks. The NMF spectral deconvolution improved the match factor score of unknown mass spectra to the reference mass spectra available in the NIST library by 17% and facilitated the identification of seven additional DBPs. The close match of the first-dimension retention index data and the GC×GC elution patterns of DBPs, both predicted using the Abraham solvation model, with their respective experimental counterparts—with the measured data available in the NIST WebBook and the GC×GC elution patterns being those observed for the candidate peaks—significantly enhanced the accuracy of peak assignment. Isotopic pattern analysis revealed a close correspondence for 11 DBPs with clearly visible isotopologues in reference spectra, thereby further strengthening the confidence in the peak assignment of these DBPs. Brominated analogues were prevalent among the detected DBPs, possibly due to seawater intrusion. The fate, behavior, persistence, and toxicity of tentatively identified DBPs were assessed using EPI Suite™ and the CompTox Chemicals Dashboard. This revealed their significant toxicity to aquatic organisms, including developmental, mutagenic, and endocrine-disrupting effects in certain DBPs. Some DBPs also showed activity in various CompTox bioassays, implicating them in adverse molecular pathways. Additionally, 11 DBPs demonstrated high environmental persistence and resistance to biodegradation. This combined approach offers a powerful tool for future research and environmental monitoring, enabling accurate identification and assessment of DBPs and their potential risks.
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(This article belongs to the Section Emerging Chemicals)
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Toxicity of UV Filter Benzophenone-3 in Brine Shrimp Nauplii (Artemia salina) and Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Embryos
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Melissa I. Ortiz-Román, Ileska M. Casiano-Muñiz and Felix R. Román-Velázquez
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(2), 537-553; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14020032 - 29 Apr 2024
Abstract
The benzophenone (BP) family, including oxybenzone (BP-3), a prevalent sunscreen ingredient and environmental contaminant, has raised concerns since the year 2005. This study investigated oxybenzone toxicity in zebrafish (Danio rerio) eleutheroembryos and brine shrimp (Artemia salina) nauplii, focusing on
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The benzophenone (BP) family, including oxybenzone (BP-3), a prevalent sunscreen ingredient and environmental contaminant, has raised concerns since the year 2005. This study investigated oxybenzone toxicity in zebrafish (Danio rerio) eleutheroembryos and brine shrimp (Artemia salina) nauplii, focusing on the LC50 and developmental impacts. Zebrafish embryos (0.100–1.50 mg/L BP-3, 96 h) and A. salina (0.100–5.00 mg/L BP-3, 48 h) were tested with ultrasound-assisted emulsified liquid-phase microextraction (UA-ELPME) used for zebrafish tissue analysis. HPLC-DAD determined BP-3 concentrations (highest: 0.74 ± 0.13 mg/L). Although no significant zebrafish embryo mortality or hatching changes occurred, developmental effects were evident. Lethal concentrations were determined (A. salina LC50 at 24 h = 3.19 ± 2.02 mg/L; D. rerio embryos LC50 at 24 h = 4.19 ± 3.60 mg/L), with malformations indicating potential teratogenic effects. A. salina displayed intestinal tract alterations and D. rerio embryos exhibited pericardial edema and spinal deformities. These findings highlight oxybenzone’s environmental risks, posing threats to species and ecosystem health.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Toxicology and Animal Health)
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Association of Combined PFOA, PFOS, Metals and Allostatic Load on Hepatic Disease Risk
by
Mary Balogun and Emmanuel Obeng-Gyasi
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(2), 516-536; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14020031 - 28 Apr 2024
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This study utilizes the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2018 data to explore the relationship between exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances (specifically perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), metals lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd), allostatic load, and hepatic disease
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This study utilizes the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2018 data to explore the relationship between exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances (specifically perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), metals lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd), allostatic load, and hepatic disease markers, including the fatty liver index a measure of the likelihood of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin. The paper identified significant associations and interaction effects by employing descriptive statistics, Spearman’s correlation analysis, linear regression, and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR). Descriptive statistics highlight sex-specific differences in contaminant levels. Spearman’s analysis underscores strong correlations among metals and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Linear regression reveals significant impacts of specific contaminants on AST, ALT, ALP, and bilirubin levels, adjusting for age and alcohol consumption. BKMR results further elucidate the complex, potentially synergistic relationships between these environmental exposures and the likelihood of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, offering nuanced insights into their combined effects on liver health. The findings emphasize the intricate dynamics of environmental exposures on hepatic function, advocating for targeted public health interventions.
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Exposure to DEP Modifies the Human Umbilical Artery Vascular Resistance Contributing to Hypertension in Pregnancy
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Melissa Mariana, Amadeu M. V. M. Soares, Miguel Castelo-Branco and Elisa Cairrao
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(2), 497-515; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14020030 - 18 Apr 2024
Abstract
Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP) are the most prevalent diseases during pregnancy. In addition to the already identified risk factors, exposure to environmental contaminants has been also considered a new one. Phthalates, which are classified as priority environmental pollutants due to their ubiquitousness
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Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP) are the most prevalent diseases during pregnancy. In addition to the already identified risk factors, exposure to environmental contaminants has been also considered a new one. Phthalates, which are classified as priority environmental pollutants due to their ubiquitousness and endocrine disrupting properties, have been implicated in HDP in some epidemiological studies. Nevertheless, phthalates’ vascular impacts still need to be clarified. Thus, we aimed to understand the connection between phthalates exposure and the occurrence of gestational hypertension, as well as the pathway involved in the pathological vascular effects. We investigated diethyl phthalate’s (DEP) effect on the vascular reactivity of the human umbilical arteries (HUAs) from normotensive and hypertensive pregnant women. Both DEP’s nongenomic (within minutes effect) and genomic (24 h exposure to DEP) actions were evaluated, as well as the contribution of cyclic guanosine monophosphate and Ca2+ channel pathways. The results show that short-term exposure to DEP interferes with serotonin and histamine receptors, while after prolonged exposure, DEP seems to share the same vasorelaxant mechanism as estrogens, through the NO/sGC/cGMP/PKG signaling pathway, and to interfere with the L-type Ca2+ channels. Thus, the vascular effect induced by DEP is similar to that observed in HUA from hypertensive pregnancies, demonstrating that the development of HDP may be a consequence of DEP exposure.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals in the Human Health)
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Exploring the Effects of Graphene-Based Nanoparticles on Early Salmonids Cardiorespiratory Responses, Swimming and Nesting Behavior
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Tomas Makaras, Magdalena Jakubowska-Lehrmann, Živilė Jurgelėnė and Sergej Šemčuk
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(2), 484-496; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14020029 - 14 Apr 2024
Abstract
Graphene-based nanomaterials are exceptionally attractive for a wide range of applications, raising the likelihood of the release of graphene-containing nanoparticles into aquatic environments. The growing use of these carbon nanomaterials in different industries highlights the crucial need to investigate their environmental impact and
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Graphene-based nanomaterials are exceptionally attractive for a wide range of applications, raising the likelihood of the release of graphene-containing nanoparticles into aquatic environments. The growing use of these carbon nanomaterials in different industries highlights the crucial need to investigate their environmental impact and evaluate potential risks to living organisms. The current investigation evaluated the nanotoxicity of graphene (nanoflakes) and graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles on the cardiorespiratory responses (heart rate, gill ventilation frequency), as well as the swimming and nesting behavioral parameters of early stage larvae and juvenile salmonids. Both short-term (96 h) and long-term (23 days) exposure experiments were conducted using two common species: brown trout (Salmo trutta) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The findings demonstrated notable alterations in fish nesting behavior, swimming performance, and cardiorespiratory functions, indicating the potential toxicity of nanoparticles. This impact was observed at both physiological and whole-organismal levels in salmonids at early stages. Future investigations should explore different types of nanocarbons and their potential enduring effects on fish population structure, considering not only individual survival but also broader aspects of development, including feeding, reproductive, and other social dynamics.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 10th International Conference on Environmental Management, Engineering, Planning and Economics (CEMEPE 2023) and SECOTOX Conference)
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Aquatic Fate and Ecotoxicology Effect of ZnS:Mn Quantum Dots on Chlorella vulgaris in Fresh Water
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Bingbing Deng, Rania Maaloul, Sophie Nowak, Yann Sivry, Claude Yéprémian, Souad Ammar, Fayna Mammeri and Roberta Brayner
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(2), 467-483; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14020028 - 26 Mar 2024
Abstract
With the increasing integration of nanomaterials into daily life, the potential ecotoxicological impacts of nanoparticles (NPs) have attracted increased attention from the scientific community. This study assessed the ecotoxicity of ZnS quantum dots (QDs) doped with varying molar concentrations of Mn2+ on
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With the increasing integration of nanomaterials into daily life, the potential ecotoxicological impacts of nanoparticles (NPs) have attracted increased attention from the scientific community. This study assessed the ecotoxicity of ZnS quantum dots (QDs) doped with varying molar concentrations of Mn2+ on Chlorella vulgaris. The ZnS:Mn QDs were synthesized using the polyol method. The size of the ZnS:Mn QDs ranged from approximately 1.1 nm to 2 nm, while the aggregation size in Seine River water was 341 nm at pH 6 and 8. The presence of ZnS:Mn (10%) NPs exhibited profound toxicity to Chlorella vulgaris, with immediate reductions in viability (survival cells) from 71%, 60% to 51%, 52% in BG11 and Seine River water, respectively, at a concentration of 100 mg L−1 of ZnS:Mn (10%) NPs. Additionally, the ATP content in Chlorella vulgaris significantly decreased in Seine River water (by 20%) after 3 h of exposure to ZnS:Mn (10%) NPs. Concurrently, SOD activity significantly increased in Seine River water, indicating that the ZnS:Mn (10%) NPs induced ROS production and triggered an oxidative stress response in microalgae cells.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Ecotoxicology)
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Effects of Acute and Developmental Exposure to Bisphenol S on Chinese Medaka (Oryzias sinensis)
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Bingying Li, Yongsi Huang, Duan Pi, Xiang Li, Yafen Guo, Zhiying Liang, Xiaohong Song, Junjie Wang and Xuegeng Wang
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(2), 452-466; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14020027 - 22 Mar 2024
Abstract
Bisphenol S (BPS), one of the substitutes for bisphenol A (BPA), is widely used in various commodities. The BPS concentrations in surface water have gradually increased in recent years, making it a predominant bisphenol analogue in the aquatic environment and raising concerns about
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Bisphenol S (BPS), one of the substitutes for bisphenol A (BPA), is widely used in various commodities. The BPS concentrations in surface water have gradually increased in recent years, making it a predominant bisphenol analogue in the aquatic environment and raising concerns about its health and ecological effects on aquatic organisms. For this study, we conducted a 96 h acute toxicity test and a 15-day developmental exposure test to assess the adverse effects of BPS exposure in Chinese medaka (Oryzias sinensis), a new local aquatic animal model. The results indicate that the acute exposure of Chinese medaka embryos to BPS led to relatively low toxicity. However, developmental exposure to BPS was found to cause developmental abnormalities, such as decreased hatching rate and body length, at 15 dpf. A transcriptome analysis showed that exposure to different concentrations of bisphenol S often induced different reactions. In summary, environmental concentrations of BPS can have adverse effects on the hatching and physical development of Chinese medaka, and further attention needs to be paid to the potential toxicity of environmental BPS.
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(This article belongs to the Section Ecotoxicology)
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Open AccessReview
Bamboo-Based Biochar: A Still Too Little-Studied Black Gold and Its Current Applications
by
Silvana Alfei and Omar Ginoble Pandoli
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(1), 416-451; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14010026 - 20 Mar 2024
Cited by 1
Abstract
Biochar (BC), also referred to as “black gold”, is a carbon heterogeneous material rich in aromatic systems and minerals, preparable by the thermal decomposition of vegetable and animal biomasses in controlled conditions and with clean technology. Due to its adsorption ability and presence
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Biochar (BC), also referred to as “black gold”, is a carbon heterogeneous material rich in aromatic systems and minerals, preparable by the thermal decomposition of vegetable and animal biomasses in controlled conditions and with clean technology. Due to its adsorption ability and presence of persistent free radicals (PFRs), BC has demonstrated, among other uses, great potential in the removal of environmental organic and inorganic xenobiotics. Bamboo is an evergreen perennial flowering plant characterized by a short five-year growth period, fast harvesting, and large production in many tropical and subtropical countries worldwide, thus representing an attractive, low-cost, eco-friendly, and renewable bioresource for producing BC. Due to their large surface area and increased porosity, the pyrolyzed derivatives of bamboo, including bamboo biochar (BBC) or activated BBC (ABBC), are considered great bio-adsorbent materials for removing heavy metals, as well as organic and inorganic contaminants from wastewater and soil, thus improving plant growth and production yield. Nowadays, the increasing technological applications of BBC and ABBC also include their employment as energy sources, to catalyze chemical reactions, to develop thermoelectrical devices, as 3D solar vapor-generation devices for water desalination, and as efficient photothermal-conversion devices. Anyway, although it has great potential as an alternative biomass to wood to produce BC, thus paving the way for new bio- and circular economy solutions, the study of bamboo-derived biomasses is still in its infancy. In this context, the main scope of this review was to support an increasing production of BBC and ABBC and to stimulate further studies about their possible applications, thus enlarging the current knowledge about these materials and allowing their more rational, safer, and optimized application. To this end, after having provided background concerning BC, its production methods, and its main applications, we have reviewed and discussed the main studies on BBC and ABBC and their applications reported in recent years.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Ecotoxicology)
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An Exploratory Investigation of Organic Chemicals Detected in Baby Teeth: Differences in Children with and without Autism
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Raymond F. Palmer
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(1), 404-415; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14010025 - 14 Mar 2024
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a behaviorally defined neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in language, communication, and social function with an estimated prevalence rate of between 1 in 30 and 44 U.S. births. Gene/environment (G × E) interactions are widely regarded as the
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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a behaviorally defined neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in language, communication, and social function with an estimated prevalence rate of between 1 in 30 and 44 U.S. births. Gene/environment (G × E) interactions are widely regarded as the most probable explanation for idiopathic ASD, especially because some genes are selectively targeted by various environmental xenobiotics. Because deciduous teeth are a likely biomarker of in utero exposure, the present study investigated if the quantity of chemicals found in deciduous teeth differs between children with and without ASD. Twenty-two deciduous teeth from children with ASD and 20 teeth from typically developed children were prepared and analyzed using THE Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer (GC × GC-TOF MS) with ChromaTOF version 23H2 software and Agilent 7890 gas chromatograph. The autism sample had significantly more chemicals in their teeth than the typical developing sample (99.4 vs. 80.7, respectively) (p < 0.0001). The majority of chemicals were identified as phthalates, plasticizers, pesticides, preservatives, or intermediary solvents used in the production of fragranced personal care or cleaning products or flavoring agents in foods. The known toxic analytes reported in this study are likely biomarkers of developmental exposure. Why there were greater concentrations of toxic chemicals in the teeth that came from children with ASD is unclear. A further understanding of the cavalcade of multiple biological system interactions (Interactome) could help with future efforts to reduce risks. Notwithstanding, the avoidance of pesticides, plastics, and scented personal care products may be warranted under the precautionary principle rule.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Conditions and Autism Spectrum Disorders)
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Modulation of the Mas-Related G Protein-Coupled Receptor X2 (MRGPRX2) by Xenobiotic Compounds and Its Relevance to Human Diseases
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Alicja Dziadowiec, Iwona Popiolek, Mateusz Kwitniewski and Grzegorz Porebski
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(1), 380-403; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14010024 - 13 Mar 2024
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) are immune cells that reside in tissues; particularly in the skin, and in the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. In recent years, there has been considerable interest in the Mas-Related G Protein-Coupled Receptor X2 (MRGPRX2), which is present on the surface
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Mast cells (MCs) are immune cells that reside in tissues; particularly in the skin, and in the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. In recent years, there has been considerable interest in the Mas-Related G Protein-Coupled Receptor X2 (MRGPRX2), which is present on the surface of MCs and can be targeted by multiple exogenous and endogenous ligands. It is potentially implicated in non-IgE-mediated pseudoallergic reactions and inflammatory conditions such as asthma or atopic dermatitis. In this paper, we review natural products and herbal medicines that may potentially interact with MRGPRX2. They mainly belong to the classes of polyphenols, flavonoids, coumarins, and alkaloids. Representative compounds include rosmarinic acid, liquiritin from licorice extract, osthole, and sinomenine, respectively. While evidence-based medicine studies are still required, these compounds have shown diverse effects, such as antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, or neuroprotective. However, despite potential beneficial effects, their use is also burdened with risks of fatal reactions such as anaphylaxis. The role of MRGPRX2 in these reactions is a subject of debate. This review explores the literature on xenobiotic compounds from herbal medicines that have been shown to act as MRGPRX2 ligands, and their potential clinical significance.
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(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products/Herbal Medicines)
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Air Pollution and Primary DNA Damage among Zagreb (Croatia) Residents: A Cross-Sectional Study
by
Marko Gerić, Gordana Pehnec, Katarina Matković, Jasmina Rinkovec, Ivana Jakovljević, Ranka Godec, Silva Žužul, Ivan Bešlić, Ante Cvitković, Luka Delić, Pascal Wild, Irina Guseva Canu, Nancy B. Hopf and Goran Gajski
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(1), 368-379; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14010023 - 13 Mar 2024
Abstract
More than eight million premature deaths annually can be attributed to air pollution, with 99% of the world’s population residing in areas below recommended air quality standards. Hence, the present study aimed to examine the association between primary DNA damage and air pollution
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More than eight million premature deaths annually can be attributed to air pollution, with 99% of the world’s population residing in areas below recommended air quality standards. Hence, the present study aimed to examine the association between primary DNA damage and air pollution data among 123 participants enrolled between 2011 and 2015 in Zagreb, Croatia. While most measured air pollutants adhered to regulatory limits, benzo[a]pyrene concentrations bound to PM10 exceeded them. Factorial analysis narrowed down air pollution data to four exposure factors (particulate matter, two metal factors, and other pollutants). Despite the absence of significant positive associations between modeled air pollution exposure factors and comet assay descriptors (tail length, tail intensity, tail moment, and highly damaged nuclei), the critical health implications of air pollution warrant further investigations, particularly with biomarkers of exposure and different biomarkers of effect in populations facing air pollution exposure.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Disease Risks and Toxic Pathway from Environmental Chemical Exposure)
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Assessing Chemical Intolerance in Parents Predicts the Risk of Autism and ADHD in Their Children
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Raymond F. Palmer, David Kattari, Rodolfo Rincon and Claudia S. Miller
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(1), 350-367; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14010022 - 5 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: We sought to replicate our 2015 findings linking chemical intolerance in parents with the risk of their children developing autism and/or ADHD. Drawing upon our 2021 discovery of a strong association between chemical intolerance and mast cells, we propose an explanation for
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Background: We sought to replicate our 2015 findings linking chemical intolerance in parents with the risk of their children developing autism and/or ADHD. Drawing upon our 2021 discovery of a strong association between chemical intolerance and mast cells, we propose an explanation for this link. Methods: In a population-based survey of U.S. adults, we used the internationally validated Quick Environmental Exposure and Sensitivity Inventory (QEESI) to assess symptom severity and chemical intolerance. Parents were asked how many of their biological children had been diagnosed with autism and/or ADHD. Results: Parents with chemical intolerance scores in the top versus bottom tenth percentile had 5.7 times the risk of reporting a child with autism and 2.1 times for ADHD. Conclusions: High chemical intolerance scores among parents of children with autism, coupled with our 2021 discovery of mast cell activation as a plausible biomechanism for chemical intolerance, suggest that (1) the QEESI can identify individuals at increased risk, (2) environmental counseling may reduce personal exposures and risk, and (3) the global rise in autism and ADHD may be due to fossil-fuel-derived and biogenic toxicants epigenetically “turning on” or “turning off” critical mast cell genes that can be transmitted transgenerationally. It is important to note that this study was observational in nature; as such, further research is needed using controlled trials to confirm causality and explore the proposed mechanism.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Conditions and Autism Spectrum Disorders)
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Mitigation of Salt Stress in Rice by the Halotolerant Plant Growth-Promoting Bacterium Enterobacter asburiae D2
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Zican Ning, Kexin Lin, Mengya Gao, Xiao Han, Qingjie Guan, Xiang Ji, Shuyu Yu and Lei Lu
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(1), 333-349; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14010021 - 1 Mar 2024
Abstract
Salinity is a major abiotic stress that seriously affects crop growth worldwide. In this work, we aimed to isolate potential halotolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) to mitigate the adverse impacts of salt stress in rice. An isolate, D2, with multiple plant growth-promoting (PGP)
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Salinity is a major abiotic stress that seriously affects crop growth worldwide. In this work, we aimed to isolate potential halotolerant plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) to mitigate the adverse impacts of salt stress in rice. An isolate, D2, with multiple plant growth-promoting (PGP) characteristics was identified as Enterobacter asburiae D2. Strain D2 could produce indole-3-acetic acid and siderophore. It also exhibited phosphate solubilization and 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic deaminase activity. Genome analysis further provided insights into the molecular mechanism of its PGP abilities. Strain D2 inoculation efficiently stimulated rice growth under both normal and saline conditions. Compared with the non-inoculated plants, a significant increase in plant height (18.1–34.7%), root length (25.9–57.1%), root dry weight (57.1–150%), and shoot dry weight (17.3–50.4%) was recorded in inoculated rice seedlings. Meanwhile, rice seedlings inoculated with strain D2 showed improvement in chlorophyll and proline content, while the oxidant damage was reduced in these plants in comparison with the control group. Moreover, the K+/Na+ ratio of the inoculated rice seedlings exposed to NaCl and Na2CO3 was higher than that of the uninoculated groups. These results imply that Enterobacter asburiae D2 is a potential PGPR that can be used for alleviation of salt stress in rice.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Biostimulants - a Promising Tool in Organic Farming)
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Spironolactone Induces Vasodilation by Endothelium-Dependent Mechanisms Involving NO and by Endothelium-Independent Mechanisms Blocking Ca2+ Channels
by
Margarida Lorigo, João Amaro and Elisa Cairrao
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(1), 320-332; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14010020 - 1 Mar 2024
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Background: Spironolactone (SPI) is a diuretic widely used to treat cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and is non-specific for mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) and with an affinity for progesterone (PR) and androgen (AR) receptors. Since 2009, it has been suggested that pharmaceuticals are emerging contaminants (called
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Background: Spironolactone (SPI) is a diuretic widely used to treat cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and is non-specific for mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) and with an affinity for progesterone (PR) and androgen (AR) receptors. Since 2009, it has been suggested that pharmaceuticals are emerging contaminants (called EDC), and recently, it was reported that most EDC are AR and MR antagonists and estrogen receptors (ER) agonists. Concerning SPI, endocrine-disrupting effects were observed in female western mosquitofish, but there are still no data regarding the SPI effects as a possible human EDC. Methods: In this work, aortic rings were used to analyze the contractility effects of SPI and the mode of action concerning the involvement of Ca2+ channels and endothelial pathways. Moreover, cytotoxic effects were analyzed by MTT assays. Results: SPI induces vasodilation in the rat aorta by endothelium-dependent mechanisms involving NO and by endothelium-independent mechanisms blocking Ca2+ channels. Moreover, a non-monotonic effect characteristic of EDC was observed for SPI-induced decrease in cell viability. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that SPI may act as an EDC at a human level. However, ex vivo studies with human arteries should be carried out to better understand this drug’s implications for human health and future generations.
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Xenobiotics Triggering Acute Intermittent Porphyria and Their Effect on Mouse Brain Respiratory Complexes
by
Johanna Romina Zuccoli, María del Carmen Martínez, Pablo Vallecorsa and Ana María Buzaleh
J. Xenobiot. 2024, 14(1), 308-319; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox14010019 - 27 Feb 2024
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Heme enzyme dysfunction causes a group of diseases called porphyrias. Particularly, a decrease in porphobilinogen deaminase, involved in the third step of heme biosynthesis, leads to acute intermittent porphyria (AIP). Considering our previous works demonstrating the multiplicity of brain metabolisms affected by porphyrinogenic
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Heme enzyme dysfunction causes a group of diseases called porphyrias. Particularly, a decrease in porphobilinogen deaminase, involved in the third step of heme biosynthesis, leads to acute intermittent porphyria (AIP). Considering our previous works demonstrating the multiplicity of brain metabolisms affected by porphyrinogenic agents, this study aimed to elucidate whether they cause any alteration on the mitochondrial respiratory chain. The activities of respiratory chain complexes (I to IV) were measured in encephalon mitochondria of CF1 male mice receiving volatile anesthetics: isoflurane (2 mL/kg) and sevoflurane (1.5 mL/kg), ethanol (30%), allylisopropylacetamide (AIA) (350 mg/kg), and barbital (167 mg/kg). Moreover, they were compared versus animals with pathological levels of 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA, 40 mg/kg). Complex I–III activity was induced by isoflurane and decreased by AIA, ethanol, and ALA. Complex II–III activity was increased by sevoflurane and decreased by isoflurane and AIA. Complex II activity was increased by sevoflurane and barbital and decreased by AIA, ethanol, and ALA. Complex IV activity was increased by barbital and ALA and decreased by sevoflurane. The damage to the respiratory chain by ALA could be reflecting the pathophysiological condition of patients with AIP. Better understanding the broad effect of porphyrinogenic drugs and the mechanisms acting on the onset of AIP is vital in translational medicine.
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