Urinary Arsenic Concentrations Research Articles

Association between gestational arsenic exposure and infant physical development: a prospective cohort study

BackgroundArsenic pollution is widespread worldwide. The association between gestational arsenic exposure and adverse birth outcomes has been demonstrated in previous studies; however, few investigations have examined whether gestational arsenic exposure has adverse effects on infant growth and development after birth.ObjectiveOur study was designed to evaluate particular associations between gestational arsenic exposure during pregnancy and newborn birth size and to investigate whether these associations continue to affect infants after birth.MethodsAn ongoing prospective cohort study of 1100 pregnant women was conducted at the Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital. The total urinary arsenic concentrations in the 2nd and 3rd trimester were determined using atomic fluorescence spectrometry. The relationships between urinary arsenic concentration and foetal growth parameters (birth weight, head circumference, length, and ponderal index), SGA (Small for gestational age), and physical growth of infants within one year after birth were analysed.ResultsUrinary arsenic concentration in the 3rd trimester was associated with an increased incidence of SGA [adjusted model: OR = 2.860 (95% CI: 1.168, 7.020), P = 0.021)]. Arsenic exposure in late pregnancy had an adverse effect on the physical development of infants before the age of 1 year, and there was an interaction effect with the sex of infants. The weight and length of boys at 6 and 12 months negatively correlated with maternal urinary arsenic levels during late pregnancy.ConclusionsIn addition to affecting foetal growth, exposure to arsenic in the 3rd trimester also negatively affected the growth of offspring within the first year of life.

Exposure-associated DNA methylation among people exposed to multiple industrial pollutants

BackgroundCurrent research on the epigenetic repercussions of exposure to a combination of pollutants is limited. This study aims to discern DNA methylation probes associated with exposure to multiple pollutants, serving as early effect markers, and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) as surrogate indicators for population susceptibility. The investigation involved the analysis of urine exposure biomarkers for 11 heavy metals (vanadium, arsenic, mercury, cadmium, chromium, nickel, lead, manganese, copper, strontium, thallium), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAHs) (1-hydroxypyrene), genome-wide DNA methylation sequencing, and SNPs array on all study participants. The data were integrated with metabolomics information and analyzed both at a community level based on proximity to home addresses relative to the complex and at an individual level based on exposure biomarker concentrations.ResultsOn a community level, 67 exposure-related CpG probes were identified, while 70 CpG probes were associated with urine arsenic concentration, 2 with mercury, and 46 with vanadium on an individual level. These probes were annotated to genes implicated in cancers and chronic kidney disease. Weighted quantile sum regression analysis revealed that vanadium, mercury, and 1-hydroxypyrene contributed the most to cg08238319 hypomethylation. cg08238319 is annotated to the aryl hydrocarbon receptor repressor (AHRR) gene, and AHRR hypomethylation was correlated with an elevated risk of lung cancer. AHRR was further linked to deregulations in phenylalanine metabolism, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, along with heightened oxidative stress. Additionally, three SNPs (rs11085020, rs199442, and rs10947050) corresponding to exposure-related CpG probes exhibited significant interaction effects with multiple heavy metals and PAHs exposure, and have been implicated in cancer progression and respiratory diseases.ConclusionOur findings underscore the pivotal role of AHRR methylation in gene-environment interactions and highlight SNPs that could potentially serve as indicators of population susceptibility in regions exposed to multiple heavy metals and PAHs.

Biochemical investigation of association of arsenic exposed polymorphic variants and disease susceptibility

Our study aimed to establish the association of polymorphic variants and disease susceptibility in arsenic-induced metabolic disorders raised due to the variability of arsenic methylation in human population exposed to arsenic in drinking water. Water samples were systematically collected from various regions of Faisalabad, Pakistan, and subjected to arsenic quantification through inductively coupled plasma emission spectrophotometry (ICP-OES). The groundwater exhibited significantly elevated arsenic concentrations (68.18 ± 21.28 μg/L) in comparison to both water and sanitation agency Faisalabad (WASA)-supplied water (9.81 ± 1.2 μg/L) and locally filtered water (8.12 ± 1.42 μg/L), as determined by one-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni's post-test at P < 0.05. An association was established between arsenic concentration and the incidence of disease, such as diabetes mellitus. A cohort of 120 participants residing in six areas of District Faisalabad was recruited. Urine and blood specimens were collected for analysis. Urine samples underwent ICP-MS analysis in helium collision mode, utilizing germanium as an internal standard. Blood samples were collected for biomarker assessments, including HbA1c, BUN, creatinine, CRP, ALT, AST, GSH, SOD, and MDA, to investigate the evidence of diabetes mellitus. Urinary arsenic concentrations were found to be considerably higher (P < 0.05) in about 22.50 % of the participants, with a mean value of 68.43 ± 16.73 ppb. Biomarker analysis in these participants revealed mean values for BUN (37.19 ± 2.87 mg/dL), creatinine (2.58 ± 0.18 mg/dL), IL-6 (11.35 ± 6.98 pg/mL), CRP (1.90 ± 0.26 mg/dL), MDA (3.70 ± 0.18 nmol/mL), ALT (40.27 ± 5.41 U/L), and AST (38.92 ± 4.72 U/L). Furthermore, the gender-based analysis indicated the higher levels of DMA, MMA, TAs, and TiAs in males compared to females when urine samples were analyzed with HPLC-ICP-MS. Participants with the positive genotype of GSTM exhibited significantly higher levels of TAs, and TiAs concentration in their urine than those with the null genotype of GSTM. Moreover, participants with positive genotypes for GSTT1 and GSTM1 demonstrated elevated levels of DMA in their urine compared to those with genotypes of GSTT1 (−) and GSTM1 (−), although this difference did not attain statistical significance. Participants with the genotype of GSTT1 (+) displayed a considerably higher secondary methylation index than those with genotype of GSTT1 (−). MMA and DMA levels were found to be correlated with the genotypes of GSTT1 and GSTM1 and the amounts of TAs in urine. In conclusion, our findings suggest a linkage between arsenic methylation, particularly levels of DMA and SMI, and GSTT1 and GSTM1 polymorphisms.

Predictors of Toxic Metal/Metalloid Exposures Among Mexican Americans in Starr County, Texas.

Arsenic, cadmium, and lead are toxic elements that widely contaminate our environment. These toxicants are associated with acute and chronic health problems, and evidence suggests that minority communities, including Hispanic/Latino Americans, are disproportionately exposed. Few studies have assessed culturally specific predictors of exposure to understand the potential drivers of racial/ethnic exposure disparities. We sought to evaluate acculturation measures as predictors of metal/metalloid (hereafter "metal") concentrations among Mexican American adults to illuminate potential exposure sources that may be targeted for interventions. As part of a longitudinal cohort, 510 adults, aged 35 to 69years, underwent baseline interview, physical examination, and urine sample collection. Self-reported acculturation was assessed across various domains using the Short Acculturation Scale for Hispanics (SASH). Multivariable linear regression was used to assess associations between acculturation and urinaryconcentrations of arsenic, cadmium, and lead. Ordinal logistic regression was utilized to assess associations between acculturation and a metal mixture score. Lastly, best subset selection was used to build a prediction model for each toxic metal with a combination of the acculturation predictors. After adjustment, immigration factors were positively associated with arsenic and lead concentrations. For lead alone, English language and American media and food preferences were associated with lower levels. Immigration and parental heritage from Mexico were positively associated with the metal mixture, while preferences for English language, media, and food were negatively associated. Acculturation-related predictors of exposure provide information about potential sources of toxic metals, including international travel, foods, and consumer products. The findings in this research study provide information to empower future efforts to identify and address specific acculturation-associated toxicant exposures in order to promote health equity through clinical guidance, patient education, and public policy.

Exposure assessment of metal(loids) in indoor air and biomonitoring in six urban residential areas in Iran

Exposure to metal(loid)s can cause adverse health effects. This study evaluated the concentrations of aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, mercury, nickel, and lead in particulate matter <10 μm (PM10) and in the urine of 100 participants from urban residential areas in Iran. A total of 100 residential buildings (one adult from each household) in six cities across Iran were recruited for this study. The levels of metal(loid)s in PM10 and the urine of participants were measured using acid digestion followed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The average (±SE) PM10 concentration in the buildings was 51.7 ± 3.46 μg/m3. Aluminum and cadmium had the highest and lowest concentrations among the metal(loid)s, averaging 3.74 ± 1.26 μg/m3 and 0.01 ± 0.001 μg/m3, respectively. In 85 % of the samples, the concentration of metal(loid)s in indoor air exceeded WHO air quality standards. Cadmium and lead had the highest and lowest numbers of indoor air samples exceeding the recommended standards, respectively. A significant correlation was found between the concentration of metal(loid)s in urine samples and indoor PM10 levels, as well as the wealth index of participants. There was also a significant direct relationship between the concentrations of nickel, arsenic, lead, and mercury in urine and the age of participants. Factors such as building location, type of cooling systems, use of printers at home, and natural ventilation influenced the concentration and types of metal(loid)s in the indoor air.

Exposure to iodine, essential and non-essential trace element through seaweed consumption in humans

Seaweed consumption has gained popularity due to its nutritional value and potential health benefits. However, concerns regarding the bioaccumulation of several trace elements highlight the need for comprehensive studies on exposure associated with seaweed consumption. To address this gap in knowledge, we carried out a feeding intervention study of three common edible seaweeds (Nori, Kombu, and Wakame) in 11 volunteers, aiming to elucidate the extent of both beneficial and harmful trace element exposure through seaweed consumption in humans. Concentrations of total arsenic, cobalt, copper, cadmium, iodine, molybdenum, selenium, and zinc were measured in urine samples before and following seaweed consumption. Elements concentrations were also measured in the seaweeds provided for the study. Descriptive analysis for each element were conducted and we used quantile g-computation approach to assess the association between the 8-element mixture and seaweed consumption. Differences in urine element concentrations and seaweed consumption were analyzed using generalized estimating equations (GEE). Urinary concentrations of iodine and total arsenic increased after seaweed consumption. When we analyze the 8-element mixture, the largest weight was observed for iodine after Kombu consumption while for total arsenic was observed after Wakame consumption. Similar results were observed when we compared the mean differences between the elements before and after seaweed consumption through the GEE. Seaweed consumption relates with increased urinary iodine and total arsenic concentrations, particularly after Kombu and Wakame consumption.

Prenatal arsenic metabolite exposure is associated with increased newborn mitochondrial DNA copy number: evidence from a birth cohort study.

While mitochondria are susceptible to environmental detriments, little is known about potential associations between arsenic metabolites and mitochondria DNA copy number (mtDNAcn). We attempted to examine whether maternal urinary arsenic metabolite levels in different trimesters were related to neonatal cord blood mtDNAcn. We included 819 mother-newborn pairs embedded in an in-progress birth cohort survey performed from April 2014 to October 2016 in Wuhan, China. We determined maternal urinary arsenic species concentrations in different trimesters. We determined cord blood mtDNAcn using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. In covariate-adjusted models, each one-unit increment of dimethylated arsenic (DMA) and total arsenic (TAs) in the third trimester was related to 8.43% (95% CI 1.13%, 16.26%) and 12.15% (95% CI 4.35%, 20.53%) increases in mtDNAcn, respectively. The dose-response trend with statistical significance was observed across tertiles of DMA and TAs in the third trimester with mtDNAcn (DMA percent changes (%Δ) = 25.60 (95% CI 6.73, 47.82), for the highest vs the lowest tertile (P = 0.02); TAs %Δ = 40.31 (95% CI 19.25, 65.10), for the highest vs the lowest tertile (P = 0.0002)). These findings may prove the relationships between prenatalarsenic species levelsand neonatalmitochondrial dysfunction.

Associations among global long interspersed nuclear element-1 DNA methylation, metal exposure, and chronic kidney disease.

Long interspersed nuclear element-1 (LINE-1) methylation serves as an indicator of global DNA methylation. This study explored the correlation between LINE-1 methylation and chronic kidney disease (CKD). We also evaluated whether LINE-1 methylation could modify the association between CKD and metal exposure. A total of 213 patients with clinically defined CKD, without hemodialysis and 416 age and sex matched controls were recruited. Levels of LINE-1 methylation, total urinary arsenic, blood lead, blood cadmium, and plasma selenium were assessed. The results reveal a positive association between LINE-1 methylation and CKD, with an odds ratio (OR) of 5.30 (95% confidence interval: 2.81 to 9.99). Total urinary arsenic and blood cadmium concentrations were positively related with LINE-1 methylation. This study was the first to observe that low plasma selenium, high blood cadmium, and high blood lead levels significantly and additively interact with increased LINE-1 methylation to increase the OR of CKD. Additionally, high LINE-1 methylation interacted multiplicatively with low plasma selenium to increase the OR of CKD (p < 0.001). This study highlighted the significant association between LINE-1 hypermethylation and CKD. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that LINE-1 methylation can interact with high blood cadmium or low plasma selenium to affect CKD risk.

Interplay of arsenic exposure and cigarette smoking on oxidative DNA damage in healthy males

BackgroundLong-term exposure to inorganic arsenic (As) and cigarette smoking has been associated with adverse health effects such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory disease. Oxidative stress is one of the most well-known damage mechanisms for both. However, studies on the association with induced 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in Iran are scarce, with no study on the interactive effect of As exposure and smoking in the literature.ObjectiveThis stratified cross-sectional study aimed to assess urinary and serum 8-OHdG levels in the relation to As exposure from drinking water, smoking and their interaction effect.MethodsThis study was based on 132 healthy male subjects living in villages of Hashtroud County, Iran (2021). All participants were categorized into four groups: (i) non-As exposed, never smokers (n = 33); (ii) non-As exposed, active smokers (n = 33); (iii) As exposed, never smokers (n = 33); and (iv) As exposed, active smokers (n = 33). Data on demographic and lifestyle factors were collected, and urinary and serum levels of 8-OHdG were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The smoker's daily cigarette consumption and the duration of smoking were self-reported data.ResultsParticipants consuming drinking water with an As concentration > 10 µg/L had significantly higher urinary total arsenic (U-tAs) concentrations (median 26.96, IQR 21.35–37.17) µg/g Cr compared to the reference group (median 19.33, IQR 17.29–23.26) µg/g Cr. There was a significant difference in the serum concentration of 8-OHdG between groups (i) and (iii), (iv) and also between groups (ii) and (iv). We did not find a significant interaction effect of As exposure and smoking on the both urinary and serum 8-OHdG levels (P > 0.05). Serum 8-OHdG (S-8OHdG) was associated with average daily intake of As (As-ADI) (β = 0.32; 95% CI 0.01, 0.04, P-value = 0.001) and cigarettes smoked per day (β = 0.3; 95% CI 0.00, 0.043, P-value = 0.046). While As-ADI (β = 0.16; 95% CI 0.001, 0.004, P-value = 0.01) and U-tAs (β = 0.6; 95% CI 0.006, 0.009, P-value < 0.001) were associated with increased urinary 8-OHdG (U-8OHdG), moderate physical activity (β = − 0.15; 95% CI − 0.07, − 0.008, P-value < 0.015) inversely decreased biomarker levels.ConclusionOur findings suggest that As exposure and smoking are potential risk factors for oxidative DNA damage, and it is strongly recommended to pay more attention to the role of lifestyle factors in future studies.

The study on biological exposure index of occupational exposure to arsenic and its inorganic compounds

Objective: To establish biological exposure index (BEI) of occupational exposure to arsenic and its inorganic compounds through occupational epidemiology and the regression analysis of internal and external exposure of workers. Methods: In November 2021, 125 workers with occupational exposure to arsenic and its inorganic compounds and 49 office administrators in a non-ferrous metal smelter in Yunnan Province were selected as the exposure group and control group, respectively. Air samples from the workplace of the study subjects on weekdays were collected and arsenic concentrations were determined. Urine samples were collected in end-of-work weekend and high performance liquid chromatography-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (HPLC-ICP-MS) was used to detect the levels of trivalent inorganic arsenic (iAs(3+)) , pentavalent inorganic arsenic (iAs(5+)) , monomethyl arsenic (MMA) and dimethyl arsenic (DMA) in urine. The correlations between arsenic concentration in the workplace air and arsenic species in urine of workers were analyzed. Arsenic exposure concentration and the level of urinary arsenic (ΣiAs+MMA+DMA) of workers was analyzed by linear regression and the BEI of arsenic and its inorganic compounds in the workplace was proposed based on the results of micronucleus test. Results: The median of time-weighted average concentration (C(TWA)) of arsenic in the workplace air of the exposure group was 0.0116 mg/m(3), and the over-standard rate was 71.2% (89/125) . The concentrations of iAs(3+), iAs(5+), inorganic arsenic (iAs=ΣiAs(3+)+iAs(5+)) 、MMA、DMA and urinary arsenic in the exposure group were higher than those in the control group at the end of shift, and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05) . The concentration of arsenic in the workplace air had the strongest correlation with the concentration of urinary arsenic at the end of the shift (r(s)=0.909, P<0.001) . The regression equation was lg (y) =7.662+2.968lg (x) (r=0.821, P<0.05) . According to the occupational exposure limit (OEL) of arsenic in China, the concentration of urinary arsenic in the end-of-work weekend was calculated to be 53.2 μg/L. Combined with the results of micronucleus test, the BEI of occupational exposure to arsenic and its inorganic compounds in the workplace was proposed to be 50 μg/L. Conclusion: The urinary arsenic in the end-of-work weekend can be used as a biomarker of occupational exposure to arsenic, and its BEI is recommended to be 50 μg/L.

Correlation analysis of urinary arsenic species and health effect indicators of occupational arsenic exposure workers

Objective: To explore the correlation between urinary arsenic and health effects through the determination and analysis of urinary arsenic levels in occupational arsenic exposed workers. Methods: In November 2021, 95 workers exposed to arsenic and its inorganic compounds and 31 administrative personnel from a non-ferrous metal smelter in Yunnan Province were selected as the contact group and control group, respectively. Urine forms of arsenic, blood tumor markers, liver function were detected, and micronucleus test was used to analyze the chromosome damage. The correlation between urine forms of arsenic and health effects were analyzed. Results: Compared with the control group, the concentrations of urinary trivalent inorganic arsenic (iAs(3+)) , pentavalent inorganic arsenic (iAs(5+)) , inorganic arsenic (iAs=ΣiAs(3+)+iAs(5+)) , monomethyl arsenic (MMA) , dimethyl arsenic (DMA) and urinary arsenic (ΣiAs+MMA+DMA) at the end of class in contact group were higher (P<0.05) . There was no statistically significant difference in blood tumor markers and liver function indicators between the two groups (P>0.05) . Compared with the control group, the peripheral blood micronucleus rate and cell micronucleus rate in the contact group were significantly increased (P<0.05) . The urinary arsenic, iAs(5+), inorganic arsenic and DMA were positively correlated with peripheral blood micronucleus rate in contact group (r(s)=0.48, 0.34, 0.37, 0.23, P<0.05) , and the urinary arsenic, iAs(5+), DMA were positively correlated with peripheral blood micronucleus rate (r(s)=0.48, 0.34, 0.26, P<0.05) . Conclusion: There is a significant correlation between different valence states of arsenic in the urine and abnormal health effects of occupational arsenic exposed workers. It is necessary to strengthen the detection of arsenic species in the urine of occupational arsenic exposed workers to better protect their health.

Heavy Metals and Trajectories of Anti-Müllerian Hormone During the Menopausal Transition.

Experimental and epidemiological studies have linked metals with women's reproductive aging, but the mechanisms are not well understood. Disrupted ovarian folliculogenesis and diminished ovarian reserve could be a pathway through which metals impact reproductive hormones and outcomes. The study aimed to evaluate the associations of heavy metals with anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), a marker of ovarian reserve. The study included 549 women from the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation with 2252 repeated AMH measurements from 10 to 0 years before the final menstrual period (FMP). Serum AMH concentrations were measured using picoAMH ELISA. Urinary concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead were measured using high-resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Multivariable linear mixed regressions modeled AMH as a function of time before the FMP interaction terms between metals and time to the FMP were also included. Adjusting for confounders, compared with those in the lowest tertile, women in the highest tertile of urinary arsenic or mercury concentrations had lower AMH concentrations at the FMP (percent change: -32.1%; 95% CI, -52.9 to -2.2, P-trend = .03 for arsenic; percent change: -40.7%; 95% CI, -58.9 to -14.5, P-trend = .005 for mercury). Higher cadmium and mercury were also associated with accelerated rates of decline in AMH over time (percent change per year: -9.0%; 95% CI, -15.5 to -1.9, P-trend = .01 for cadmium; -7.3%; 95% CI, -14.0 to -0.1, P-trend = .04 for mercury). Heavy metals including arsenic, cadmium, and mercury may act as ovarian toxicants by diminishing ovarian reserve in women approaching the FMP.

Assessing Acute and Chronic Risks of Human Exposure to Arsenic: A Cross-Sectional Study in Ethiopia Employing Body Biomarkers.

Arsenic, a widely recognized and highly toxic carcinogen, is regarded as one of the most hazardous metalloids globally. However, the precise assessment of acute and chronic human exposure to arsenic and its contributing factors remains unclear in Ethiopia. The primary goal of this study was to assess the levels of acute and chronic arsenic exposure, as well as the contributing factors, using urine and nail biomarkers. A community-based analytical cross-sectional study design was employed for this study. Agilent 7900 series inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was used to measure the concentrations of arsenic in urine and nail samples. We performed a multiple linear regression analysis to assess the relationships between multiple predictors and outcome variables. The concentration of arsenic in the urine samples ranged from undetectable (<0.01) to 126.13, with a mean and median concentration of 16.02 and 13.5 μg/L, respectively. However, the mean and median concentration of arsenic in the nails was 1.01, ranging from undetectable (<0.01 μg/g) to 2.54 μg/g. Furthermore, Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis showed a significant positive correlation between arsenic concentrations in urine and nail samples (r = 0.432, P < .001). Also, a positive correlation was observed between urinary (r = 0.21, P = .007) and nail (r = 0.14, P = .044) arsenic concentrations and the arsenic concentration in groundwater. Groundwater sources and smoking cigarettes were significantly associated with acute arsenic exposure. In contrast, groundwater sources, cigarette smoking, and the frequency of showers were significantly associated with chronic arsenic exposure. The study's findings unveiled the widespread occurrence of both acute and chronic arsenic exposure in the study area. Consequently, it is crucial to prioritize the residents in the study area and take further measures to prevent both acute and chronic arsenic exposure.

Associations between metals and metabolomic profiles related to diabetes among adults in a rural region

IntroductionExposure to metals is associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Potential mechanisms for metals-T2D associations involve biological processes including oxidative stress and disruption of insulin-regulated glucose uptake. In this study, we assessed whether associations between metal exposure and metabolite profiles relate to biological pathways linked to T2D. Materials and methodsWe used data from 29 adults rural Colorado residents enrolled in the San Luis Valley Diabetes Study. Urinary concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, lead, manganese, and tungsten were measured. Metabolic effects were evaluated using untargeted metabolic profiling, which included 61,851 metabolite signals detected in serum. We evaluated cross-sectional associations between metals and metabolites present in at least 50% of samples. Primary analyses adjusted urinary heavy metal concentrations for creatinine. Metabolite outcomes associated with each metal exposure were evaluated using pathway enrichment to investigate potential mechanisms underlying the relationship between metals and T2D. ResultsParticipants had a mean age of 58.5 years (standard deviation = 9.2), 48.3% were female, 48.3% identified as Hispanic/Latino, 13.8% were current smokers, and 65.5% had T2D. Of the detected metabolites, 455 were associated with at least one metal, including 42 associated with arsenic, 22 with cadmium, 10 with cobalt, 313 with lead, 66 with manganese, and two with tungsten. The metabolic features were linked to 24 pathways including linoleate metabolism, butanoate metabolism, and arginine and proline metabolism. Several of these pathways have been previously associated with T2D, and our results were similar when including only participants with T2D. ConclusionsOur results support the hypothesis that metals exposure may be associated with biological processes related to T2D, including amino acid, co-enzyme, and sugar and fatty acid metabolism. Insight into biological pathways could influence interventions to prevent adverse health outcomes due to metal exposure.

Association between urinary arsenic concentration and genetic polymorphisms in Korean adults.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43188-023-00216-x.

Association of arsenic exposure with measles antibody titers in US children: Influence of sex and serum folate levels

Exposure to arsenic during childhood is associated with various adverse health conditions. However, little is known about the effect of arsenic exposure on vaccine-related humoral immunity in children. We analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2003–2004 and 2009–2010) to study the relationship between urinary arsenic and measles antibody levels in 476 US children aged 6–11. Multivariable linear regression was used to evaluate the association, adjusting for cycle, age, race, body mass index (BMI), serum cotinine, poverty index ratio, and vitamin B12 and selenium intakes. Stratified analyses were conducted by sex and serum folate levels using the median as cutoff (18.7 ng/mL). The measles antibody concentrations in the 3rd and 4th quartiles were found to have significantly decreased by 28.5 % (95 % Confidence Interval (CI) −47.6, −2.28) and 36.8 % (95 % CI −50.2, −19.5), compared to the lowest quartile among boys with serum folate levels lower than 18.7 ng/ml. The serum measles antibody titers significantly decreased by 16.7 % (95 %CI −25.0, −7.61) for each doubling of creatinine-corrected urinary total inorganic arsenic concentrations in the same group. No associations were found in boys with high serum folate levels or in girls. Further prospective studies are needed to validate these findings and develop interventions to protect children from infectious diseases.

Association between urinary concentrations of toxic metals/metalloids and oxidative stress in Brazilians living in areas affected by the Fundão dam failure

The Fundão Dam failure has been the most significant environmental disaster in Brazil. The catastrophe released large amounts of mining waste into the environment, including toxic metals/metalloids, which are recognized to induce carcinogenic effects. The urinary levels of 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8OHdG), a widely accepted oxidative stress and carcinogenesis biomarker, provide a potential tool for assessing the disaster's health implications. This study investigated the association between urinary levels of some toxic metals/metalloids and 8OHdG in Brazilian individuals living in areas affected by the Fundão dam failure. Urinary concentrations of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb) were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, while 8OHdG was analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Non-parametric bootstrap regression was used to estimate the associations between the urinary levels of toxic elements and 8OHdG. The results showed that except for Hg, urinary concentrations of all metals/metalloids analyzed here exceeded the reference ranges for the Brazilian population. The regression analysis revealed that As (0.337; CI 95%: 0.203; 0.474), Cd (0.268; CI 95%: 0.036; 0.520), and Ni (0.296; CI 950.108; 0.469) were positively associated with creatinine-adjusted urinary 8OHdG levels. Associations were not found for Hg (0.0122; CI 95%: −0.155; 0.183) and Pb (0.201; CI 95%: −0.040; 0.498). The current findings suggest that high exposure to toxic metals/metalloids might increase 8OHdG levels with potential adverse health effects. This study is the first one in which the relationship between toxic metals/metalloids and oxidative stress biomarkers is investigated in populations affected by environmental disasters. Further prospective studies are necessary to monitor exposure levels and explore additional health impacts.

Association of exposure to environmental vanadium and manganese with lung function among young children: A population-based study

Exposure to environmental metals has been associated with health outcomes including respiratory health. Little is known about the impact of exposure to environmental metals on lung function among young children in general population. This study aimed to investigate the associations of exposure to metals with lung function among young children in a population-based cohort. A total of 1488 children aged 5–8 years attended a follow-up visit as part of the Longitudinal Investigation of Global Health in Taiwanese Schoolchildren (LIGHTS) cohort. We measured urinary samples of vanadium (median: 1.21 ng/mL; interquartile range (IQR): 0.73–1.98), manganese (median: 0.23 ng/mL; IQR: 0.13–0.47), arsenic (median: 40.51 ng/mL; IQR: 21.66–70.49), nickel (median: 1.09 ng/mL; IQR: 0.31–3.60), and cadmium (median: 0.26 ng/mL; IQR: 0.11–0.43) and performed lung function tests. Urinary vanadium concentrations were inversely associated with FVC (β coefficient for the highest quartile versus the other quartiles: −33.40, p = 0.001), FEV1 (β: −41.31, p < 0.001), FEV1/FVC ratio (β: −1.00, p = 0.009), PEF (β: −92.12, p = 0.004), and FEF25–75 (β: −82.85, p < 0.001), after adjusting for relevant confounders. Urinary manganese concentrations were inversely associated with FVC (β: −26.60, p = 0.007), FEV1 (β: −31.62, p = 0.001), PEF (β: −84.86, p = 0.009), and FEF25–75 (β: −69.21, p = 0.002). Stratification analyses found inverse associations of urinary vanadium and manganese concentrations with lung function parameters predominantly among children exposed to environmental tobacco smoke. We did not find significant associations of urinary arsenic, nickel, and cadmium concentrations with lung function parameters. In conclusion, this study adds new evidence showing inverse associations of vanadium and manganese exposure with lung function among young children in the general population. Children with environmental tobacco smoke exposure are particularly vulnerable to adverse impact of vanadium and manganese exposure on lung function.

Association of Methionine Synthase rs1805087 Polymorphism With Arsenic-Related Skin Pigmentary Changes: A Population-Based Case-Control Study

Objective: Chronic arsenic exposure causes skin lesions including skin cancers, pigmentary changes, and keratosis. Genetic polymorphism in arsenic metabolism may increase susceptibility to the development of arsenic-related skin lesions. This study was performed to determine whether arsenic metabolism-related gene variants are associated with arsenic-related pigmentary changes. Methods: This case–control study involved 189 patients with arsenic-related pigmentary changes and 103 controls. Thirty-eight polymorphisms in 10 genes determined by mass spectrometry assay served as candidate drivers of arsenic-induced pigmentary changes. Urine and plasma arsenic levels were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Hair arsenic concentrations were measured by nondispersive atomic fluorescence spectrometry. Arsenic metabolites in urine were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Serum folate was measured using a folate radio assay kit. Analysis of variance, nonparametric test, or the chi-square test was selected according to the data distribution. Spearman correlation analysis was used to determine the correlation between two parameters. Logistic regression was used to estimate the effect of single-nucleotide polymorphisms. Results: The arsenic concentrations in urine, plasma, and hair and the urine arsenic species were not significantly different between patients and controls. Logistic regression revealed that among the polymorphisms, the methionine synthase (MTR) rs1805087 polymorphism showed a protective effect against arsenic-related pigmentary changes. In the codominant model, the adjusted odds ratio for age, sex, and ethnicity was 0.41 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.21–0.80; P = 0.008) for the AG genotype and 0.11 (95% CI, 0.02–0.60; P = 0.012) for the GG genotype. Conclusion: MTR polymorphism showed a protective effect against arsenic-related pigmentary changes in the logistic regression model. The effect of MTR rs1805087 might be independent of arsenic metabolism and one-carbon metabolism. More studies are needed to clarify the biological function of MTR rs1805087 and its relationship with the etiology of arsenic-related pigmentary changes.

Thyroid function and urinary concentrations of iodine, selenium, and arsenic in vegans, lacto-ovo vegetarians and pescatarians

PurposePopulations following a plant-based diet may be at particular risk of thyroid dysfunction due to low iodine and selenium intakes. The main purpose was to assess thyroid function and urinary concentration of iodine, selenium, and arsenic, in subjects following a vegan, lacto-ovo vegetarian, or pescatarian diet.MethodsIn Norway, a country without mandatory dietary iodine fortification, 205 adults, following vegan (n = 115), lacto-ovo vegetarian (n = 55) and pescatarian diet (n = 35) were included. Thyroglobulin (Tg), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (fT3), free thyroxine (fT4), and serum anti-TPO (S-anti-TPO) were measured in a venous blood sample and concentrations of iodine (UIC), creatinine (UCC), selenium, and arsenic were measured from single spot urine samples.ResultsSubclinical hypothyroidism (TSH > 4.0 mU/L) was observed in 3% of subjects. The overall median (p25, p75) Tg was 17 (9, 30) µg/L and vegans had higher Tg compared to pescatarians. Vegans not consuming iodine-containing supplements (n = 43) had higher Tg, than supplement users (n = 72), 27 (11, 44) vs. 16 (8, 25) µg/L and higher fT4, 16 (15, 17) vs. 15 (14, 17) pmol/L, respectively. The overall median UIC was 57 (28, 130) µg/L, all dietary groups had median UIC below WHO thresholds. Median urinary selenium and arsenic concentration was 13 (6, 22) and 3 (2, 8) µg/L, respectively.ConclusionThe prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism was low and fT4 and fT3 were within the normal range for all dietary groups. Vegans had significantly increased Tg compared to pescatarians.