Vol. 2 No. 1 (2024)

  • Open Access

    Article

    Article ID: 443

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

    by Mei Ha, Wanzhen Tang, Jichun Huang, Changjiang Liu

    Journal of Toxicological Studies, Vol.2, No.1, 2024; 191 Views

    Due to their 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's 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 feasible risk mitigation strategies.

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  • Open Access

    Article

    Article ID: 527

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

    by Shivani Dhiman, Deepa Sharma, Naveeta Kotia, Reshma Sinha

    Journal of Toxicological Studies, Vol.2, No.1, 2024; 1424 Views

    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 (1 µm–5000 µm) particles termed microplastics. The current study facilitates the assessment and quantification of MPs in soil samples 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% H 2 O 2 for digestion of organic matter. After sample treatment, the obtained supernatant was visualized under a stereomicroscope. In the current study, fragments (81.06%) were the dominant MP 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 the soil sample from Tahliwal due to the disposal from small-scale industries and domestic waste, while the lowest microplastics concentration was detected in the soil sample from Una city. However, further research is needed to identify the polymer type and to check the possible source of microplastic examined.

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  • Open Access

    Review

    Article ID: 250

    Toxicity of agrochemicals: Impact on environment and human health

    by Pranav Anjaria, Sanjay Vaghela

    Journal of Toxicological Studies, Vol.2, No.1, 2024; 1196 Views

    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.

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  • Open Access

    Review

    Article ID: 404

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

    by V. N. Meena Devi

    Journal of Toxicological Studies, Vol.2, No.1, 2024; 1691 Views

    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.

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  • Open Access

    Review

    Article ID: 1135

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

    by Suresh R. Naik, Dipesh Gamare, Amisha Bhopatrao

    Journal of Toxicological Studies, Vol.2, No.1, 2024; 797 Views

    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 and 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.

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  • Open Access

    Review

    Article ID: 513

    Toxicity of microplastics in fish: A short review

    by Zahra Khoshnood

    Journal of Toxicological Studies, Vol.2, No.1, 2024; 1058 Views

    Microplastic pollution is a growing environmental concern globally, attracting significant attention due to its potential impacts on aquatic ecosystems. This short review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the research conducted on microplastic pollution in fish, focusing on its occurrence, sources, impacts, and potential mitigation strategies. By analyzing existing studies, this review highlights the urgent need for continued research and increased awareness to address this persistent issue.

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  • Open Access

    Review

    Article ID: 1202

    Deciphering the mechanisms of carcinogens: Unravelling the pathways of cancer initiation and progression: An insight into DNA damage, genotoxicity, and epigenetic changes

    by Saurabh Dilip Bhandare

    Journal of Toxicological Studies, Vol.2, No.1, 2024; 694 Views

    Carcinogens are substances known to induce cancer by altering the genetic material and cellular processes within the human body. Understanding the mode of action of carcinogens is critical for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies against cancer. Cancer remains a significant global health challenge, with carcinogens posing a continuous threat to human well-being. This study explores the intricate mechanisms by which carcinogens induce cancer, focusing on the interplay of DNA damage, genotoxicity, and epigenetic alterations. Through an analysis of direct and indirect-acting carcinogens, the study elucidates how these agents disrupt cellular DNA, leading to mutations and chromosomal abnormalities. Additionally, the role of genotoxicity in driving oncogenesis is explored, highlighting the importance of assessing carcinogenic risk through cytogenetic genotoxicity methods. The study focused on the direct and indirect DNA damage, genotoxicity, epigenetic changes, inflammation, hormonal effects, and immune system suppression induced by different carcinogens. It intends insight on the intricate interplay between environmental factors and the molecular foundation of carcinogenesis by thoroughly investigating these pathways. By comprehensively examining these pathways, which hope to focus on the complex interplay of carcinogenesis. By understanding these mechanisms, this study aims to inform preventive strategies and therapeutic interventions, ultimately mitigating the global burden of cancer.

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