Journal of Xenobiotics最新文献

Ibuprofen (IBP) is one of the most consumed drugs in the world. It is only partially removed in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), being present in effluent wastewater and sewage sludge, causing the widespread introduction of IBP as an emergent xenobiotic in different environmental compartments. This study describes the use of Labrys neptuniae CSW11, recently described as an IBP degrader, through bioaugmentation processes for the removal of IBP from water under different conditions (additional carbon sources, various concentrations of glucose and IBP). L. neptuniae CSW11 showed very good results in a wide range of IBP concentrations, with 100% removal in only 4 days for 1 and 5 mg L^-1 IBP and 7 days for 10 mg L^-1, and up to 48.4% removal in 28 days for IBP 100 mg L^-1 when using glucose 3 g L^-1 as an additional carbon source. Three IBP metabolites were identified during the biotransformation process: 1-hydroxyibuprofen (1-OH-IBP), 2-hydroxyibuprofen (2-OH-IBP), and carboxyibuprofen (CBX-IBP), whose concentrations declined drastically in the presence of glucose. IBP metabolites maintained a certain degree of toxicity in solution, even when IBP was completely removed. The results indicate that L. neptuniae CSW11 can be quite effective in degrading IBP in water, but the bioaugmentation method should be improved using CSW11 in consortia with other bacterial strains able to degrade the toxic metabolites produced. A genome-based analysis of L. neptuniae CSW11 revealed different enzymes that could be involved in IBP biodegradation, and a potential metabolic pathway was proposed based on the metabolites observed and genome analysis.

Skin represents an effective barrier against the penetration of external agents into the human body. Nevertheless, recent research has shown that small particles, especially in the nanosized range, can not only penetrate through the skin but also work as vectors to transport active molecules such as contrast agents or drugs. This knowledge has opened new perspectives on nanomedicine and controlled drug delivery. On the other hand, micro- and nanoplastics represent a form of emerging pollutants, and their concentration in the environment has been reported to drastically increase in the last years. The possible penetration of these particles through the skin has become a major concern for human health. If the actual primary toxicity of these materials is still debated, their possible role in the transport of toxic molecules through the skin, originating as secondary toxicity, is surely alarming. In this review paper, we analyze and critically discuss the most recent scientific publications to underline how these two processes, (i) the controlled delivery of bioactive molecules by micro- and nano-structures and (ii) the unwanted and uncontrolled penetration of toxic species through the skin mediated by micro- and nanoparticles, are deeply related and their efficiency is strongly affected by the nature, size, and shape of the particles.

The increased use of chlorantraniliprole and fludioxonil has sparked concerns about their residues and impact on the soil microbiome, highlighting an urgent issue requiring attention. This study investigates the residue dynamics of corn after chlorantraniliprole and fludioxonil treatments, as well as their effects on soil enzyme activity and microbial community structure. High-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) analysis showed a significant decrease in chlorantraniliprole and fludioxonil residues in the soil after combined application, especially with chlorantraniliprole. This application caused a temporary reduction in urease and sucrase activities. Furthermore, high-throughput sequencing of the soil microbiome revealed a decrease in the relative abundance of Talaromyces during fludioxonil application, while Mortierela and Gibberella increased. Additionally, Vicianmibacteraceae and Vicianminbactererales saw significant increases after chlorantraniliprole application. The combined application of chlorantraniliprole and fludioxonil not only decreased the population of harmful microorganisms but also lowered residue levels in the soil when compared to individual applications. This ultimately enhanced the efficacy of control measures and promoted environmental compatibility.

In this study, models for NOEL (No Observed Effect Level) and NOEC (No Observed Effect Concentration) related to long-term/reproduction toxicity of various organic pesticides are built up, evaluated, and compared with similar models proposed in the literature. The data have been obtained from the EFSA OpenFoodTox database, collecting only data for the Bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus). Models have been developed using the CORAL-2023 program, which can be used to develop quantitative structure-property/activity relationships (QSPRs/QSARs) and the Monte Carlo method for the optimization of the model. The software provided a model which may be considered useful for the practice. The determination coefficient of the best models for the external validation set was 0.665.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of persistent organic pollutants that pose a growing threat to environmental and human health. Soil acts as a long-term reservoir for PFAS, potentially impacting soil biodiversity and ecosystem function. Earthworms, as keystone species in soil ecosystems, are particularly vulnerable to PFAS exposure. In this study, we investigated the sublethal effects of three short-chain (C4-C6) next-generation perfluoropropylene oxide acids (PFPOAs) on the earthworm Eisenia fetida, using a legacy perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acid (PFCA), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), as a reference. We assessed a suite of biochemical endpoints, including markers for oxidative stress (catalase and superoxide dismutase activity), immunity (phenol oxidase activity), neurotoxicity (acetylcholinesterase activity), and behavioural endpoints (escape test). Results indicate that all tested PFAS, even at sub-micromolar concentrations, elicited significant effects across multiple physiological domains. Interestingly, HFPO-DA demonstrated the most substantial impact across all endpoints tested, indicating broad and significant biochemical and neurotoxic effects. Our findings underscore the potential risks of both legacy and emerging PFAS to soil ecosystems, emphasising the need for further research to understand the long-term consequences of PFAS contamination.

Addressing the consequences of exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) demands thorough research and elucidation of the mechanism by which EDCs negatively impact women and lead to breast cancer (BC). Endocrine disruptors can affect major pathways through various means, including histone modifications, the erroneous expression of microRNA (miRNA), DNA methylation, and epigenetic modifications. However, it is still uncertain if the epigenetic modifications triggered by EDCs can help predict negative outcomes. Consequently, it is important to understand how different endocrine disrupters or signals interact with epigenetic modifications and regulate signalling mechanisms. This study proposes that the epigenome may be negatively impacted by several EDCs, such as cadmium, arsenic, lead, bisphenol A, phthalates, polychlorinated biphenyls and parabens, organochlorine, and dioxins. Further, this study also examines the impact of EDCs on lifestyle variables. In breast cancer research, it is essential to consider the potential impacts of EDC exposure and comprehend how EDCs function in tissues.

Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is a low-molecular-weight phthalate commonly found in personal care products, such as perfumes, aftershaves, and nail care items, as well as in children's toys, pharmaceuticals, and food products. It is used to improve flexibility, make polymer products soft and malleable, and as solvents and stabilizers in personal care products. Pregnancy represents a critical period during which both the mother and the developing embryo can be significantly impacted by exposure to endocrine disruptors. This article aims to elucidate the effects of prenatal exposure to DBP on the health and development of offspring, particularly on the reproductive, neurological, metabolic, renal, and digestive systems. Extensive research has examined the effects of DBP on the male reproductive system, where exposure is linked to decreased testosterone levels, reduced anogenital distance, and male infertility. In terms of the female reproductive system, DBP has been shown to elevate serum estradiol and progesterone levels, potentially compromising egg quality. Furthermore, exposure to this phthalate adversely affects neurodevelopment and is associated with obesity, metabolic disorders, and conditions such as hypospadias. These findings highlight how urgently stronger laws prohibiting the use of phthalates during pregnancy are needed to lower the risks to the fetus's health and the child's development.

Short- and medium-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs and MCCPs) are environmental contaminants known for their persistence and bioaccumulation in fatty tissues. SCCPs are considered potential carcinogens and endocrine disruptors, with similar effects expected for MCCPs. This study investigated the body burden of SCCPs and MCCPs in residents of two regions of the Czech Republic with different levels of industrial pollution. Blood serum samples from 62 individuals in Ceske Budejovice (control area) and Ostrava (industrial area) were analysed. The results showed higher concentrations of SCCPs (<120-650 ng/g lipid weight (lw)) and MCCPs (<240-1530 ng/g lw) in Ostrava compared to Ceske Budejovice (SCCPs: <120-210 ng/g lw, MCCPs: <240-340 ng/g lw). The statistical analysis revealed no significant correlations between chemical concentrations and demographic variables such as age, BMI, or gender. The findings are consistent with European and Australian studies but significantly lower than levels reported in China. This is the first comprehensive survey of SCCPs and MCCPs in human blood serum in the Czech Republic and the second study in Europe. The data collected in this study are essential for assessing SCCPs and MCCPs. They will contribute to a better understanding the potential health risks associated with exposure to these chemicals.

The growing use of products containing rare earth elements (REEs) may lead to higher environmental emissions of these elements, which can potentially enter aquatic systems. Praseodymium (Pr) and europium (Eu) are widely used REEs with various applications. However, their ecotoxicological impacts remain largely unexplored, with poorly understood risks to wildlife. Moreover, organisms also face environmental stressors like salinity fluctuations, and the nature of the interaction between salinity variations and contaminants is not yet clear. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the influence of salinity shifts on the impacts of Pr and Eu on adult mussels and the sperm of the species Mytilus galloprovincialis after 28 days and 30 min of exposure, respectively. To do so, biochemical and histopathological alterations were evaluated in adults, while biochemical and physiological changes were analysed in sperm. Additionally, the Integrated Biological Index (IBR) was calculated to understand the overall impact of each treatment. The results showed that adult mussels were most affected when exposed to the combination of high salinity and each element, which altered the behaviour of defence mechanisms causing redox imbalance and cellular damage. On the other hand, sperm demonstrated sensitivity to specific REE-salinity combinations, particularly Pr at lower salinity and Eu at higher salinity. These specific treatments elicited changes in sperm motility and velocity: Pr 20 led to a higher production of O₂^- and a decrease in velocity, while Eu 40 resulted in reduced motility and an increase in irregular movement. At both lower and higher salinity levels, exposure to Eu caused similar sensitivities in adults and sperm, reflected by comparable IBR scores. In contrast, Pr exposure induced greater alterations in sperm than in adult mussels at lower salinity, whereas the reverse was observed at higher salinity. These findings suggest that reproductive success and population dynamics could be modulated by interactions between salinity levels and REE pollution, highlighting the need for further investigation into how REEs and environmental factors interact. This study offers valuable insights to inform policymakers about the potential risks of REE contamination, emphasising the importance of implementing environmental regulations and developing strategies to mitigate the impact of these pollutants.

The direct discharge of cationic surfactants into environmental matrices has exponentially increased due to their wide application in many products. These compounds and their degraded products disrupt microbial dynamics, hinder plant survival, and affect human health. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop electroanalytical assessment techniques for their identification, determination, and monitoring. In our study, ZnO-PANI nanocomposites were electrodeposited on a glassy carbon electrode (GCE), followed by the immobilization of laccase enzymes and the electrodeposition of polypyrrole (PPy), to form a biosensor that was used for the detection of CTAB. A UV-Vis analysis showed bands corresponding to the π-π* transition of benzenoid and quinoid rings, π-polaron band transition and n-π*polaronic transitions associated with the extended coil chain conformation of PANI, and the presence and interaction of ZnO with PANI and type 3 copper in the laccase enzymes. The FTIR analysis exhibited peaks corresponding to N-H and C-N stretches and bends for amine, C=C stretches for conjugated alkenes, and a C-H bend for aromatic compounds. A high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM) analysis proved that PANI and ZnO-PANI were deposited as fibres with hairy topography resulting from covalent bonding with the laccase enzymes. The modified electrode (PPy-6/GCE) was used as a platform for the detection of CTAB with three linear ranges of 0.5-100 µM, 200-500 µM, and 700-1900 µM. The sensor displayed a high sensitivity of 0.935 μA μM^-1 cm^-2, a detection limit of 0.0116 µM, and acceptable recoveries of 95.02% and 87.84% for tap water and wastewater, respectively.