Journal of Toxicological Studies

Threats of nano/microplastics to reproduction and offspring: Potential mechanisms and perspectives

2024-03-27T08:15:43+00:00

Due to the ubiquitous occurrence in the aquatic environment and terrestrial ecosystem and underlying eco-environmental risks, nano/microplastics (NPs/MPs) have sparked great public concerns. The purpose of this work is aimed to summarize the harmful influence of NPs/MPs on reproduction and offspring health and further explore the potential mechanisms of action, thereby facilitating the more comprehensive understanding of NPs/MPs features. Literature search databases included EMBASE, Web of Science, and PubMed. The study selection and data extraction were implemented according to the inclusion criteria. NPs/MPs could accumulate and trigger reproductive toxic responses and thereafter generate deleterious effects on the offspring health. Accordingly, the reproductive toxicity of NPs/MPs was characterized as the sperm deformity, decline in sperm count and motility, follicular growth tardiness, ovarian fibrosis, granulosa cell death, disorder of reproductive hormone secretion, as well as the fetal growth restriction, glycolipid metabolism disorder, and inflammatory responses of the next generation. Additionally, mechanism research revealed that NPs/MPs exposure brought about inflammatory responses and oxidative stress and thereafter, destroyed the blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity, motivated spermatogenic cell apoptosis by activating the JNK and p38/MAPK-Nrf2/NF-κB pathways, and induced ovarian granulosa cell pyroptosis and apoptosis and subsequent ovarian fibrosis via the Wnt/β-Catenin and NLRP3/Caspase-1 pathways. Nevertheless, this work also highlighted the imperative requirements for scientific and systematic risk assessments of NPs/MPs, so as to identify the feasible risk mitigation strategies.

Evaluation of disparate multiplicities of copper oxide nanoparticles integrated feed on the growth and hematology of koi carp

2024-04-02T06:11:36+00:00

The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of different multiplicities of integrated feed containing copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) on the morphology and growth of Koi carp. UV-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) were used to produced and characterize the CuO nanoparticles. Different copper oxide nanoparticle multiplicities, including 25, 50, 100, 150, and 200 mg, were added to the 100 g feed. After 21 days, the Koi carp’s feed consumption and hematological parameters were assessed. CuO NPs were examined at 200–300 nm wavelengths, according to the UV–visible absorption spectra. At wavelengths ranging from 9.18 mm (scale bar 10 µm) to 9.18 mm (scale bar 2 µm), SEM pictures were observed. Two peaks in the spectrum at 0.9 KeV and 8 KeV were detected by the EDAX spectrum. The wavelength range for the XRD picture observation was 75 nm. The 400 to 4000 cm^–1 wavelength range was used to observe the FT-IR spectra. The Koi carp’s condition factor and feed utilization metrics were greater in feed VI. From feed I to feed VI, all other parameters are gradually reduced while the WBC count is steadily increased. The study came to the conclusion that Koi carp might grow well with 200 mg of copper oxide nanoparticles mixed with diet.

Estimation of microplastics distribution in soil sample from District Una, Himachal Pradesh, India

2024-04-10T02:11:42+00:00

Plastics have become an indispensable part of our daily lives. Its production and usage are increasing day by day. Our lives have become dependent on plastic-based products and we are frequently exposed to plastics. The oxidation, fragmentation and leaching stimulate the formation of small size (1 µm–5000 µm) particles termed as microplastics. The current study facilitates the assessment and quantification of MPs in soil sample collected from 5 sites (Amb, Gagret, Mubarikpur, Una city and Tahliwal) in district Una, Himachal Pradesh, India. Soil samples were treated with NaCl for density separation and 30% H₂O₂ for digestion of organic matter. After sample treatment, obtained supernatant were visualized under stereomicroscope. In the current study, fragments (81.06%) were the dominant MPs type identified, followed by fibers (16.04%) and films (2.89%). Similarly, MPs obtained were of various colours such as purple (59%), greenish purple (5%), yellow (5%), blue (2%), green (1%) and transparent (28%). The highest microplastics concentration was detected in soil sample from Tahliwal due to the disposal from small scale industries and domestic waste while the lowest microplastics concentration was detected in soil sample from Una city. However, further research is needed to identify the polymer type and to check the possible source of microplastic examined.

Toxicity of agrochemicals: Impact on environment and human health

2024-03-27T08:15:51+00:00

Agrochemicals, while essential for increasing agricultural yields and pest control, have unintended consequences. They contaminate soil and water, disrupting ecosystems, reducing biodiversity, and threatening aquatic life. Furthermore, agrochemicals harm non-target organisms, disrupting ecological balance. On the human health front, farmworkers and pesticide applicators face acute poisoning risks, with symptoms ranging from discomfort to severe illness or death. Chronic health effects include links to cancer, neurological disorders, and reproductive problems, raising concerns about food safety and worker well-being. Addressing agrochemical toxicity requires a multifaceted approach. Governments must enforce strict regulations to minimize environmental contamination and ensure safe handling practices. The agricultural industry can adopt sustainable methods like integrated pest management (IPM) and organic farming to reduce reliance on agrochemicals. Innovations such as precision agriculture, biological pest control, nanotechnology, and artificial intelligence for early risk detection are essential. Collaboration among stakeholders is critical for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly agriculture sector, involving regulatory measures like maximum residue limits (MRLs) and sustainable practices like IPM and organic farming. In summary, this review highlights the urgent need to address agrochemical toxicity holistically, balancing agricultural productivity with environmental and health concerns to ensure a sustainable future for agriculture and the planet.

Sources and toxicological effects of some heavy metals—A mini review

2024-03-27T08:15:35+00:00

Heavy metals play essential roles in biological activities as enzyme cofactors in trace amounts. However, their significance is overshadowed by potential harm in excess. Bio-accumulation, toxicity, non-biodegradability, and persistence are hallmarks that impact the environment and human health. Bio-accumulation is critical as metals accumulate in organisms, posing risks in ecosystems, especially in the food chain. This leads to elevated metal concentrations in the human food chain. Even at trace levels, heavy metals like lead, mercury, cadmium, chromium, and arsenic exhibit toxicity, causing various health issues, emphasizing the need to regulate exposure. Non-biodegradability distinguishes heavy metals; they persist in the environment, enhancing the risks associated with prolonged exposure and accumulation. Due to their recognized toxicity, heavy metals are a focus of research. Understanding sources, pathways, and effects is crucial for effective mitigation strategies. Researchers explore pollution control, improved industrial practices, and remediation techniques. Anthropogenic activities, such as industrialization, urbanization, waste disposal, and agricultural practices, release heavy metals into the environment. This contaminates air, water, and soil, contributing to environmental and health risks. The present paper discusses the sources and toxicological effects of various heavy metals.

Chemical health hazards and toxicity of environmental pollutants on humans, animals and others: An overview

2024-04-23T03:23:33+00:00

Toxicology, rooted in ancient civilizations and evolving through pivotal historical figures like Paracelsus and Alice Hamilton, has become a multidisciplinary field encompassing various branches such as pharmacology, medical, forensic, and environmental toxicology. This exploration embarks on a journey through time and science, unravelling the intricate interplay between chemicals, pollutants, and their profound impacts on human, animal, and environmental well-being. Spanning from ancient practices like the use of hemlock in Greek capital punishment to modern-day concerns surrounding industrial chemicals and pesticides, the review delves into the mechanisms by which toxins disrupt biochemical pathways and induce organ dysfunctions. From heavy metals and pesticides persistent effects on the nervous and reproductive systems to the carcinogenic properties of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), hydrocarbons, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The review highlights the diverse range of toxicants and their widespread impact on human health. Additionally, the review underscores the importance of proactive measures to mitigate exposure to harmful substances, advocating for the development of antidotes, bioremediation techniques, and stricter environmental regulations. By addressing the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat toxicological hazards, this review aims to contribute to ongoing efforts to safeguard public health and environmental sustainability in the face of evolving chemical threats.