Toxics

18 pages, 6369 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gestational GenX Exposure Induces Maternal Hepatotoxicity by Disrupting the Lipid and Bile Acid Metabolism Distinguished from PFOA-Induced Pyroptosis

by Jin-Jin Zhang, Yu-Kui Chen, Ya-Qi Chen, Qin-Yao Zhang, Yu Liu, Qi Wang and Xiao-Li Xie

Toxics 2025, 13(8), 617; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080617 - 24 Jul 2025

Abstract

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and its replacement, GenX, are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) widely used in industrial and consumer applications. Pregnant women are a vulnerable population to environmental pollutants. The maternal effects of GenX and PFOA exposure during pregnancy have not been fully [...] Read more.

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and its replacement, GenX, are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) widely used in industrial and consumer applications. Pregnant women are a vulnerable population to environmental pollutants. The maternal effects of GenX and PFOA exposure during pregnancy have not been fully elucidated. In this study, pregnant mice received daily oral doses of GenX (2 mg/kg/day), PFOA (1 mg/kg/day), or Milli-Q water (control) throughout gestation. Histopathological analyses revealed significant liver abnormalities in both exposure groups, including hepatocyte swelling, cellular disarray, eosinophilic degeneration, karyopyknosis, lipid vacuolation, and increased inflammatory responses. Through transcriptomics analyses, it was found that multiple metabolic and inflammatory pathways were enriched in both exposure groups. In the GenX group, overexpression of CYP4A, c-Myc, and Oatp2 proteins and decreased expression of EGFR and β-catenin in the liver suggested disruption of lipid and bile acid metabolism. In the PFOA group, significantly upregulated protein levels of NLRP3, GSDMD, caspase-1, IL-18, and IL-1β indicated hepatic pyroptosis. Despite these distinct pathways, both compounds triggered inflammatory cytokine release in the liver, consistent with the results of the transcriptomics analysis, suggesting shared mechanisms of inflammatory liver injury. Taken together, our findings provided novel insights into the hepatotoxicity mechanisms of GenX and PFOA exposure during pregnancy, underscoring the potential health risks associated with PFAS exposure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Endocrine Disruptors and Persistent Organic Pollutants: Their Impact on the Environment and Human Health)

41 pages, 4553 KiB

Open AccessReview

Global Distribution, Ecotoxicity, and Treatment Technologies of Emerging Contaminants in Aquatic Environments: A Recent Five-Year Review

by Yue Li, Yihui Li, Siyuan Zhang, Tianyi Gao, Zhaoyi Gao, Chinwei Lai, Ping Xiang and Fengqi Yang

Toxics 2025, 13(8), 616; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080616 - 24 Jul 2025

Abstract

With the rapid progression of global industrialization and urbanization, emerging contaminants (ECs) have become pervasive in environmental media, posing considerable risks to ecosystems and human health. While multidisciplinary evidence continues to accumulate regarding their environmental persistence and bioaccumulative hazards, critical knowledge gaps persist [...] Read more.

With the rapid progression of global industrialization and urbanization, emerging contaminants (ECs) have become pervasive in environmental media, posing considerable risks to ecosystems and human health. While multidisciplinary evidence continues to accumulate regarding their environmental persistence and bioaccumulative hazards, critical knowledge gaps persist in understanding their spatiotemporal distribution, cross-media migration mechanisms, and cascading ecotoxicological consequences. This review systematically investigates the global distribution patterns of ECs in aquatic environments over the past five years and evaluates their potential ecological risks. Furthermore, it examines the performance of various treatment technologies, focusing on economic cost, efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Methodologically aligned with PRISMA 2020 guidelines, this study implements dual independent screening protocols, stringent inclusion–exclusion criteria (n = 327 studies). Key findings reveal the following: (1) Occurrences of ECs show geographical clustering in highly industrialized river basins, particularly in Asia (37.05%), Europe (24.31%), and North America (14.01%), where agricultural pharmaceuticals and fluorinated compounds contribute disproportionately to environmental loading. (2) Complex transboundary pollutant transport through atmospheric deposition and oceanic currents, coupled with compound-specific partitioning behaviors across water–sediment–air interfaces. (3) Emerging hybrid treatment systems (e.g., catalytic membrane bioreactors, plasma-assisted advanced oxidation) achieve > 90% removal for recalcitrant ECs, though requiring 15–40% cost reductions for scalable implementation. This work provides actionable insights for developing adaptive regulatory frameworks and advancing green chemistry principles in environmental engineering practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exposure and Toxicity of Emerging Organic Pollutants in Environment and Human)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

13 pages, 919 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cognitive Functions Among Pupils in Schools Near and Around an Electronic Waste Recycling Site at Agbogbloshie in Accra, Ghana

by Serwaa A. Bawua, Kwame M. Agbeko, Ibrahim Issah, Afua A. Amoabeng-Nti, Saskia Waldschmidt, Katja Löhndorf, Thomas Küpper, Jonathan Hogarh and Julius N. Fobil

Toxics 2025, 13(8), 615; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080615 - 23 Jul 2025

Abstract

Background: Electronic waste (e-waste) recycling in informal settings like Agbogbloshie in Accra, Ghana, releases toxic metals into the environment, posing serious health risks to nearby residents, particularly children. This study assessed the body burdens of lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), [...] Read more.

Background: Electronic waste (e-waste) recycling in informal settings like Agbogbloshie in Accra, Ghana, releases toxic metals into the environment, posing serious health risks to nearby residents, particularly children. This study assessed the body burdens of lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), and arsenic (As) and their association with cognitive function in schoolchildren living within 1 km of the Agbogbloshie site. Method: A cross-sectional study involving 56 pupils collected demographic data and blood and urine samples and administered the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—Fourth Edition (WISC-IV). Blood was tested for Pb and Mn and urine for Cd, Cr, Ni, and As. Associations between metal levels and cognitive outcomes were examined using regression analyses, adjusting for confounders. Result: Children showed elevated metal levels, with mean blood Pb of 60.43 µg/L and urinary s of 21.50 µg/L. Symptoms of cognitive dysfunction were common: 75% reported confusion, 67.9% poor memory, and 66% poor concentration. Urinary Cr levels were significantly associated with lower Full-Scale IQ (β = −18.42, p < 0.05) and increased difficulty in decision-making (OR = 0.1, p < 0.05). Conclusion: These findings underscore the neurodevelopmental risks of heavy metal exposure from e-waste in low- and middle-income countries and call for urgent public health interventions and policy actions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occupational Exposure to Heavy Metals in Environmentally Vulnerable Areas)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1048 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Seasonal PM_2.5 Exposure on Metabolic and Hormonal Profiles in Healthy Individuals and Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome in Chiang Mai, Thailand

by Sharjeel Shakeel, Shamsa Sabir, Wason Parklak, Sawaeng Kawichai, Praporn Kijkuokool, Wiritphon Khiaolaongam, Pakaphorn Ngamsang, Putita Jiraya, Hataichanok Chuljerm, Puriwat Fakfum and Kanokwan Kulprachakarn

Toxics 2025, 13(8), 614; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080614 - 23 Jul 2025

Abstract

Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) is linked to metabolic dysfunction, yet evidence on its impact on hormonal regulation remains limited. This study examined seasonal changes in insulin, adiponectin, leptin, and HOMA-IR levels among healthy individuals and those with metabolic syndrome [...] Read more.

Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) is linked to metabolic dysfunction, yet evidence on its impact on hormonal regulation remains limited. This study examined seasonal changes in insulin, adiponectin, leptin, and HOMA-IR levels among healthy individuals and those with metabolic syndrome (MS) in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Fifty participants (25 healthy, 25 with MS) were assessed during high (February–April)- and low (May–July)-PM_2.5 seasons. Insulin levels increased in healthy individuals (mean: 9.3 to 14.9 µIU/mL; p = 0.051) and decreased in participants with MS (22.0 to 13.7 µIU/mL; p = 0.214), with a significant interaction effect (p = 0.020). Leptin increased significantly in both groups, but more markedly in the MS group (p < 0.001), also with a significant interaction (p < 0.001). HOMA-IR rose significantly in healthy individuals (p = 0.036) but not in participants with MS. Adiponectin remained stable across groups and seasons. At baseline, the MS group had significantly higher rates of diabetes (p = 0.050), hypertension (p = 0.001), and hyperlipidemia (p = 0.049). These findings suggest that PM_2.5 may influence metabolic and hormonal profiles, particularly in individuals with existing metabolic disorders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Effect of Airborne Contaminants Exposure on Early Health Damage Biomarkers: 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 3761 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transcriptomic Meta-Analysis Unveils Shared Neurodevelopmental Toxicity Pathways and Sex-Specific Transcriptional Signatures of Established Neurotoxicants and Polystyrene Nanoplastics as an Emerging Contaminant

by Wenhao Wang, Yutong Liu, Nanxin Ma, Rui Wang, Lifan Fan, Chen Chen, Qiqi Yan, Zhihua Ren, Xia Ning, Shuting Wei and Tingting Ku

Toxics 2025, 13(8), 613; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080613 - 22 Jul 2025

Abstract

Environmental contaminants exhibit heterogeneous neurotoxicity profiles, yet systematic comparisons between legacy neurotoxicants and emerging pollutants remain scarce. To address this gap, we implemented an integrative transcriptome meta-analysis framework that harmonized eight transcriptomic datasets spanning in vivo and in vitro neural models exposed to [...] Read more.

Environmental contaminants exhibit heterogeneous neurotoxicity profiles, yet systematic comparisons between legacy neurotoxicants and emerging pollutants remain scarce. To address this gap, we implemented an integrative transcriptome meta-analysis framework that harmonized eight transcriptomic datasets spanning in vivo and in vitro neural models exposed to two legacy neurotoxicants (bisphenol A [BPA], 2, 2′, 4, 4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether [BDE-47]) and polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) as an emerging contaminant. Our analysis revealed a substantial overlap (68% consistency) in differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between BPA and PSNPs, with shared enrichment in extracellular matrix disruption pathways (e.g., “fibronectin binding” and “collagen binding”, p < 0.05). Network-based toxicogenomic mapping linked all three contaminants to six neurological disorders, with BPA showing the strongest associations with Hepatolenticular Degeneration. Crucially, a sex-stratified analysis uncovered male-specific transcriptional responses to BPA (e.g., lipid metabolism and immune response dysregulation), whereas female models showed no equivalent enrichment. This highlights the sex-specific transcriptional characteristics of BPA exposure. This study establishes a novel computational toxicology workflow that bridges legacy and emerging contaminant research, providing mechanistic insights for chemical prioritization and gender-specific risk assessment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Traditional and Emerging Pollutants: Human Exposure Profiles and Health Effects)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

52 pages, 34158 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Radiation Assessment and Geochemical Characteristics of ²³⁸U, ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K of Selected Specialized Granitic Occurrences, Saudi Arabia, Arabian Shield

by Mohamed Tharwat S. Heikal, Aya S. Shereif, Árpád Csámer and Fatma Deshesh

Toxics 2025, 13(8), 612; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080612 - 22 Jul 2025

Abstract

Between approximately 725 and 518 Ma, a suite of specialized felsic plutons and granitic stocks were emplaced across the Arabian Shield, many of which are now recognized as highly mineralized prospects enriched in rare earth elements (REEs), rare metals, and radioactive elements bearing [...] Read more.

Between approximately 725 and 518 Ma, a suite of specialized felsic plutons and granitic stocks were emplaced across the Arabian Shield, many of which are now recognized as highly mineralized prospects enriched in rare earth elements (REEs), rare metals, and radioactive elements bearing mineralizations. The current investigation focused on the radiological and geochemical characterization of naturally occurring radionuclides, specifically ²³⁸U, ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K, within three strategically selected granitic prospects, namely, J. Tawlah albite granite (TW), J. Hamra (HM), and J. Abu Al Dod alkali feldspar syenite and granites (AD). Concerning the radioactivity levels of the investigated granitic stocks, specifically the activity concentrations of ²³⁸U, ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K, the measured average values demonstrate significant variability across the TW, HM, and AD stocks. The average ²³⁸U concentrations are 195 (SD = 38.7), 88.66 (SD = 25.6), and 214.3 (SD = 140.8) Bq/kg for TW, HM, and AD granitic stocks, respectively. Corresponding ²²⁶Ra levels are recorded at 172.4 (SD = 34.6), 75.62 (SD = 25.9), and 198.4 (SD = 139.5) Bq/kg. For ²³²Th, the concentrations are markedly elevated in TW at 5453.8 (SD = 2182.9) Bq/kg, compared to 77.16 (SD = 27.02) and 160.2 (SD = 103.8) Bq/kg in HM and AD granitic stocks, respectively. Meanwhile, ⁴⁰K levels are reported at 1670 (SD = 535.9), 2846.2 (SD = 249.9), and 3225 (SD = 222.3) Bq/kg for TW, HM, and AD granitic plutons, respectively. Notably, these values exceed the global average background levels, indicating an anomalous enrichment of the studied granitic occurrences. The mean radiological hazard indices for each granitic unit generally exceed global benchmarks, except for AEDE_out in the HM and AD stocks, which remain below international limits. The geochemical disparities observed are indicative of post-magmatic alteration processes, as substantiated by the interpretation of remote sensing datasets. In light of the significant radiological burden presented by these granitic stocks, it is essential to implement a rigorous precautionary framework for any future mining. These materials must be categorically excluded from uses that entail direct human exposure, especially in residential construction or infrastructure projects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Radioactive Substances)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 2473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Selenium Reduces Cadmium-Induced Cardiotoxicity by Modulating Oxidative Stress and the ROS/PARP-1/TRPM2 Signalling Pathway in Rats

by Yener Yazğan, Ömer Faruk Keleş, Mehmet Hafit Bayir, Hacı Ahmet Çiçek, Adem Ahlatcı and Kenan Yıldızhan

Toxics 2025, 13(8), 611; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080611 - 22 Jul 2025

Viewed by 29

Abstract

Cadmium (CAD) is a prevalent environmental contaminant that poses serious cardiotoxic risks. The heart, kidney, liver, and brain are just a few of the essential organs that can sustain serious harm from CAD, a very poisonous heavy metal. The cardiotoxic mechanism of CAD [...] Read more.

Cadmium (CAD) is a prevalent environmental contaminant that poses serious cardiotoxic risks. The heart, kidney, liver, and brain are just a few of the essential organs that can sustain serious harm from CAD, a very poisonous heavy metal. The cardiotoxic mechanism of CAD is linked to oxidative damage and inflammation. A trace element with anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant qualities, selenium (SEL) can be taken as a dietary supplement. The biotoxicity of heavy metal CAD is significantly inhibited by SEL, a mineral that is vital to human and animal nutrition. Through ROS-induced PARP-1/ADPR/TRPM2 pathways, this study seeks to assess the preventive benefits of selenium against cardiovascular damage caused by CAD. The SEL showed encouraging results in reducing inflammatory and oxidative reactions. Rats were given 0.5 mg/kg SEL and 3 mg/kg 2-Aminoethyl diphenylborinate (2-APB) intraperitoneally for five days, in addition to 25 mg/kg CAD given via gavage. Histopathological examination findings revealed that the morphologic changes in the hearts of the CAD group rats were characterised by marked necrosis and the degeneration of myocytes and congestion of vessels. Compared to the rats in the CAD group, the hearts of the SEL, 2-APB and SEL+2-APB groups showed fewer morphological alterations. Moreover, in rats given CAD, there was an increase in cardiac malondialdehyde (MDA), total oxidant (TOS), reactive oxygen species (ROS), caspase (Casp-3-9), and TNF-α, whereas glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant (TAS) decreased. SEL improved antioxidants, avoided tissue damage, and reduced cardiac MDA, TOS, and ROS. In rats given CAD, SEL decreased cardiac PARP-1, TRPM2, TNF-α, and caspase. In summary, by reducing oxidative stress and cardiac damage and modifying the ROS/PARP-1/TRPM2 pathway, SEL protected against CAD cardiotoxicity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Toxicity and Molecular Mechanisms of Environmental Contaminants on Animals)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11 pages, 1012 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantification of Ultra-Trace Lead in Water After Preconcentration on Nano-Titanium Oxide Using the Slurry Sampling ETAAS Method

by Lucia Nemček and Ingrid Hagarová

Toxics 2025, 13(8), 610; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080610 - 22 Jul 2025

Viewed by 52

Abstract

A simple and efficient dispersive micro solid-phase extraction (DMSPE) method using nano-TiO₂ as a sorbent was developed for the separation and preconcentration of (ultra) trace levels of lead in water samples prior to quantification by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS). Key experimental [...] Read more.

A simple and efficient dispersive micro solid-phase extraction (DMSPE) method using nano-TiO₂ as a sorbent was developed for the separation and preconcentration of (ultra) trace levels of lead in water samples prior to quantification by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS). Key experimental parameters affecting the DMSPE process, including pH, ionic strength, sorbent dosage, and preconcentration factor, were optimized. The optimized method demonstrated a preconcentration factor of 20, a relative standard deviation below 4.5%, and a detection limit of 0.11 µg/L. The procedure was validated using certified reference material (CRM TM-25.5) and applied to real water samples from a lake, a residential well, and industrial wastewater. Satisfactory recoveries (89–103%) confirmed the reliability of the method for the determination of low lead concentrations in complex matrices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Toxic Agent Analysis and Removal for Healthy Living and Safe Environment)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

25 pages, 400 KiB

Open AccessReview

Microplastic Uptake in Vegetables: Sources, Mechanisms, Transport and Food Safety

by Zorana Srećkov, Zorica Mrkonjić, Mirjana Bojović, Olivera Nikolić, Danka Radić and Vesna Vasić

Toxics 2025, 13(8), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080609 - 22 Jul 2025

Viewed by 58

Abstract

Although microplastic pollution has been recognized as one of the major environmental challenges of the 21st century, its toxicological impact on crops, especially vegetables, has attracted limited scientific attention until recently. Vegetables represent a key component of the human diet, making any potential [...] Read more.

Although microplastic pollution has been recognized as one of the major environmental challenges of the 21st century, its toxicological impact on crops, especially vegetables, has attracted limited scientific attention until recently. Vegetables represent a key component of the human diet, making any potential contamination of great importance for food safety. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have been conducted to investigate the interactions between microplastics and vegetable crops. This review aims to synthesize the current knowledge on the sources of microplastics in agroecosystems, the mechanisms of uptake and translocation in plants, and the physiological and biochemical responses induced by micro- and nanoplastics. This work aims to improve the scientific basis for assessing the risk of microplastic contamination by identifying gaps in current understanding and suggesting future research directions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Emerging Contaminants)

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Toxics, Volume 13, Issue 8 (August 2025) – 9 articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI