Co-exposure to Biphenyl A, Polychlorinated Biphenyls and Cadmium in Utero on fetus development

Abstract

Background: Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), biphenyl-A (BPA) and cadmium (Cd) exposures in utero increase the risk of development. In this study, we investigated the possible synergic effects and potential mechanism of these chemicals in an e-waste exposure area, Guiyu. Methods: We enrolled 216 pregnant women, 153 from Guiyu as the exposed group and 47 from other area as control groups, who voluntarily donated cord blood and placenta after birth. The contents of PCBs, BPA in cord blood, and Cd and lead in placenta tissue were measured by GC-MS and GFAAS, respectively. The gene expression of KiSS-1 in UCB and leptin, leptin receptor in placenta were detected by real time RT-PCR. Results: The cord blood BPA concentration in Guiyu was significantly higher than that in control. Total PCB concentrations were also significantly higher in cord blood from Guiyu than control. The mean value of placental Cd in exposed group was significantly higher than that in control group. All of the relative gene expressions of KiSS-1, leptin and its receptors in Guiyu were significantly higher than that in the control. In addition, a positive association had been found between BPA concentration and expression of KiSS-1 and such association in male neonates was more significant. The placental cadmium level were positively related with the expression of leptin and leptin receptor in placenta, and the expression of leptin and leptin receptor were positively related with birth weight and birth height, separate by gender, the higher association in female neonates was observed. Conclusion: Neonates in Guiyu had higher inner exposure to BPA, PCBs and Cd, that possibly stimulate the expression of gene of KiSS-1, leptin and leptin receptor.