Toxics

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

17 pages, 6050 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Benzo[a]Pyrene Exposure on Lung Cancer: A Mechanistic Study of Epigenetic m6A Levels and YTHDF1

by Siyi Xu, Jie Li, Sheng Yang, Panpan Yang, Yiru Niu, Yiling Ge and Geyu Liang

Toxics 2025, 13(4), 280; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13040280 - 5 Apr 2025

Viewed by 403

Abstract

Benzo[a]pyrene, as the primary component of air pollutants, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). As an m6A reader that facilitates mRNA translation, YTHDF1 serves as a crucial regulator in tumor progression. Therefore, we established Benzo[a]pyrene(B[a]P)-induced bronchial epithelial malignant [...] Read more.

Benzo[a]pyrene, as the primary component of air pollutants, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). As an m6A reader that facilitates mRNA translation, YTHDF1 serves as a crucial regulator in tumor progression. Therefore, we established Benzo[a]pyrene(B[a]P)-induced bronchial epithelial malignant transformed cells (HBE-P35) to simulate the precancerous lesions of NSCLC and investigated the regulatory axis of YTHDF1 in both HBE-P35 and A549 lung cancer cells. A high level of m6A expression was detected in both HBE-P35 and A549 cells. Over-expression of YTHDF1 was observed in NSCLC tissues and correlated with poor overall survival in NSCLC patients. TMT labeling-based proteomic analysis and clinical lung tissue microarray assays demonstrated that CDK6 and MAP3K6 were positively correlated with YTHDF1 expression. MeRIP and RIP analyses revealed that YTHDF1 mediates the m6A-dependent regulation of CDK6 and MAP3K6 protein expression. The acquisition and deletion of miR-139/145-5p, along with luciferase reporter gene assays, demonstrated that miR-139-5p can target YTHDF1. Therefore, we conclude that YTHDF1 regulates CDK6 and MAP3K6 through m6A in B[a]P-induced HBE-P35 and A549 cells, providing a potential target for lung cancer treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Contaminants and Human Health)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

12 pages, 1347 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Internal Bisphenol Analogue Exposure in an Elderly Chinese Population: Knowledge from Dietary Exposure

by Xinjie Duan, Mengyuan Liang, Beibei Wei, Jie Gu, Qian Zhao, Guixiang Ji, Shengyang Jin and Huanhuan Chen

Toxics 2025, 13(4), 259; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13040259 - 29 Mar 2025

Viewed by 307

Abstract

Due to its endocrine-disrupting effects and neurotoxicity, Bisphenol A (BPA) has been banned from some products and some countries; therefore, alternatives are increasingly being used. Studies have been performed to evaluate internal Bisphenol analogue (BP) exposure in children, adolescents and adults; however, little [...] Read more.

Due to its endocrine-disrupting effects and neurotoxicity, Bisphenol A (BPA) has been banned from some products and some countries; therefore, alternatives are increasingly being used. Studies have been performed to evaluate internal Bisphenol analogue (BP) exposure in children, adolescents and adults; however, little information on elderly age groups is available. In this study, a cohort of 161 senior residents aged 60–70 years, from a coastal residential district in Jiangsu Province of China, was selected, and blood samples were collected from these individuals to evaluate internal BP exposure. The serum concentrations of eleven BPs (BPA, BPB, BPC, BPE, BPF, BPS, BPZ, BPP, BPAF, BPAP and TBBPA) were quantitatively determined by HPLC-MS/MS. In parallel, demographic and dietary surveys were conducted, and the potential association between BP levels and dietary habits was analyzed. Noteworthily, the detection rate of 10 BPs in serum samples exceeded 78%. Of all the BPs, BPA displayed the highest level, followed by BPAF, BPB, and BPS. Interestingly, the levels of most types of BPs in males were higher than those in females, and individuals above 65 years of age exhibited significantly higher BPA levels. Dietary analysis indicated a significant correlation between meat consumption and BP levels, implying that this is an important source of BP exposure. The current study uncovers previously unknown aspects of BPs exposure, characterized by high internal BP levels in the elderly, and risk factors such as gender and meat consumption. This offers valuable insights for preventing region-specific BP exposure in the elderly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Contaminants and Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 5102 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lead Causes Lipid Droplet Accumulation by Impairing Lysosomal Function and Autophagic Flux in Testicular Sertoli Cells

by Chengwei Guo, Lingqiao Wang, Ke Cui, Guowei Zhang, Yao Tan, Weiyan Chen, Yiqi Wang, Jijun Liu, Wenbin Liu, Guanghui Zhang and Ziyuan Zhou

Toxics 2025, 13(3), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13030175 - 28 Feb 2025

Viewed by 579

Abstract

Lead (Pb) is one of the most common environmental pollutants that negatively impacts male reproductive health. Thus far, the underlying molecular mechanisms of Pb-induced reproductive toxicity are still not well understood. In this study, 64 male ICR mice were given drinking water with [...] Read more.

Lead (Pb) is one of the most common environmental pollutants that negatively impacts male reproductive health. Thus far, the underlying molecular mechanisms of Pb-induced reproductive toxicity are still not well understood. In this study, 64 male ICR mice were given drinking water with Pb (0, 100, 200, and 300 mg/L) for 90 days. We found that exposure to 300 mg/L Pb resulted in reduced sperm quality and elevated autophagy-related protein levels in the mouse testes. Our findings indicate that the Pb hindered the autophagic clearance by impairing the lysosomes’ function and then obstructing the fusion of lysosomes and autophagosomes. The autophagy cycle obstruction prevented the lipid droplets from breakdown and led to their accumulation in the Sertoli cells. In turn, the ccytotoxic effects that resulted from the interruption of the autophagy maturation stage, instead of the elongation phase, could be alleviated by either Chloroquine or Bafilomycin A1. Furthermore, exposure to 400 μM Pb initiated the TFE3 nuclear translocation and caused the increased expression of its target genes. Then, the knockdown of TFE3 reduced the formation of the autophagosome. In addition, the use of the antioxidant NAC notably enhanced the autophagic activity and reduced the occurrence of lipid droplets in the Sertoli cells. This study demonstrated that Pb disrupted the autophagic flow, which caused lipid droplet accumulation in the TM4 cells. Consequently, focusing on the maturation stage of autophagy might offer a potential therapeutic approach to alleviate male reproductive toxicity caused by Pb exposure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Contaminants and Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 8213 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Paternal DEHP Exposure Triggers Reproductive Toxicity in Offspring via Epigenetic Modification of H3K27me3

by Lu Zhang, Rui Yang, Guiyong Xu, Lingqiao Wang, Weiyan Chen, Yao Tan, Guowei Zhang, Wenbin Liu, Guanghui Zhang, Jun Li and Ziyuan Zhou

Toxics 2025, 13(3), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13030172 - 27 Feb 2025

Viewed by 531

Abstract

Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is an acknowledged endocrine disruptor with male reproductive toxicity; nevertheless, the transgenerational impacts on male offspring resulting from paternal exposure, along with the mechanisms involved, are not well understood. To develop a transgenerational model of DEHP paternal exposure, male [...] Read more.

Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is an acknowledged endocrine disruptor with male reproductive toxicity; nevertheless, the transgenerational impacts on male offspring resulting from paternal exposure, along with the mechanisms involved, are not well understood. To develop a transgenerational model of DEHP paternal exposure, male C57BL/6J mice (4-week) exposed to DEHP (5, 250, and 500 mg/kg/d) for 35 days were then bred with unexposed female mice at a ratio of 1:2 to produce offspring. Findings indicate that the sperm quality and relative sex hormones were adversely affected in males of F1 and F2 generations, and pathological damage in the testes and the apoptosis of testicular cells were also observed. Interestingly, an increase in the expression levels of H3K27me3 was observed in the testicular tissues of male descendants. It was further confirmed by in vitro approach that H3K27me3 may down-regulate the expression of Bcl-2 and plays a role in regulating the initiation of apoptosis in Leydig cells triggered by MEHP (the primary metabolite of DEHP). Additionally, the down-regulation of Bcl-2 can be reversed by treatment with the H3K27me3 inhibitor GSK126. To conclude, DEHP leads to transgenerational harm to male offspring reproductive systems, with the epigenetic mechanism of H3K27me3 playing a key role in mediating these effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Contaminants and Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 8554 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship Between PM2.5 and Eight Common Lung Diseases: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Analysis

by Yuhang Jiang, Jingwen Si, Yuhang Wang, Han Zhang, Fang Zhou, Xike Lu, Xin Li, Daqiang Sun and Zheng Wang

Toxics 2024, 12(12), 851; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12120851 - 26 Nov 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1897

Abstract

Air pollutants have both acute and chronic impacts on human health, affecting multiple systems and organs. While PM2.5 exposure is commonly assumed to be strongly associated with all respiratory diseases, this relationship has not been systematically analyzed. This study employed a two-sample Mendelian [...] Read more.

Air pollutants have both acute and chronic impacts on human health, affecting multiple systems and organs. While PM2.5 exposure is commonly assumed to be strongly associated with all respiratory diseases, this relationship has not been systematically analyzed. This study employed a two-sample Mendelian randomization approach to investigate the effects of PM2.5 on eight common lung diseases, using data from GWAS. Additionally, multivariable Mendelian randomization was applied to assess the direct effects of various air pollutants and the mediating roles of common factors such as BMI and smoking. At a significance threshold of 5×10⁻⁸, PM2.5 showed a significant causal relationship with both asthma and COPD. When the screening threshold was relaxed to 5× 10⁻⁶, this exposure continued to demonstrate significant associations not only with asthma and COPD, but also with other respiratory diseases, including pneumonia, emphysema/chronic bronchitis, and lung cancer. In the multivariable Mendelian randomization analysis, which controlled for smoking and bacterial infections, the association with pneumonia became non-significant, while the relationships with the other four diseases persisted. This study provides a systematic exploration of the relationship between PM2.5 and eight pulmonary diseases from a new perspective, deepening our understanding of the impact of air pollution on health and laying the foundation for future efforts to mitigate these effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Contaminants and Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2254 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Consumption of Native Fish Associated with a Potential Carcinogenic Risk for Indigenous Communities in the Peruvian Amazon

by Magaly Alejandra Brousett-Minaya, Fred William Chu-Koo, Juvenal Napuchi-Linares, Cynthia Elizabeth Zambrano Panduro, Juan Amilcar Reyes-Larico, Adriana Edith Larrea-Valdivia and Ivan Edward Biamont-Rojas

Toxics 2024, 12(8), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12080552 - 30 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1899

Abstract

Aquatic environments, such as fluvial environments, play an important role in the transport of material from throughout the basin, and this material partially sediments along the way. The objective of this study was to analyze, from an ecotoxicological point of view, the concentrations [...] Read more.

Aquatic environments, such as fluvial environments, play an important role in the transport of material from throughout the basin, and this material partially sediments along the way. The objective of this study was to analyze, from an ecotoxicological point of view, the concentrations of arsenic and heavy metals in sediment and the muscle of native fish, to correlate their interaction and to evaluate the potential risk to public health using carcinogenic risk indices in four rivers of the Peruvian Amazon. There were 27 sampling sites where sediment and fish (except for five points) samples were collected. A sampling pool was created with fish muscles from all species collected at each sampling site. Concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, and Hg were analyzed in both sediment and fish muscle, in duplicate. The results indicate the presence of concentrations higher than those recommended by international guidelines for sediment and food. Mercury (Hg) concentrations in the Tigre, Morona, and Pastaza rivers are up to six times higher than the recommended value for daily consumption. The carcinogenic risk due to the regular consumption of native species in the indigenous communities living on the banks of the four studied rivers is high. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Contaminants and Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 836 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Associations between Ethylene Oxide Exposure and Liver Function in the US Adult Population

by Shanshan Li, Jinzhou Wang, Dengliang Lei, Dadi Peng, Kezhen Zong, Kaili Li, Zhongjun Wu, Yanyao Liu and Zuotian Huang

Toxics 2024, 12(8), 551; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12080551 - 30 Jul 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1590

Abstract

Background: Ethylene oxide, a reactive epoxy compound, has been widely used in various industries for many years. However, evidence of the combined toxic effects of ethylene oxide exposure on the liver is still lacking. Methods: We analyzed the merged data from the National [...] Read more.

Background: Ethylene oxide, a reactive epoxy compound, has been widely used in various industries for many years. However, evidence of the combined toxic effects of ethylene oxide exposure on the liver is still lacking. Methods: We analyzed the merged data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2013 to 2016. Ultimately, 4141 adults aged 18 and over were selected as the sample. We used linear regression to explore the association between blood ethylene oxide and LFT indicators. Results: The weighted linear regression model showed that HbEO is positively correlated with ALP (β = 2.61, 95% CI 1.97, 3.24, p < 0.0001), GGT (β = 5.75, 95% CI 4.46, 7/05, p < 0.0001), ALT (β = 0.50, 95% CI 0.09, 0.90, p = 0.0158), and AST (β = 0.71, 95% CI 0.44, 0.98, p < 0.0001) and negatively correlated with TBIL (β = −0.30, 95% CI −0.43, −0.16, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Ethylene oxide exposure is significantly associated with changes in liver function indicators among adults in the United States. Future work should further examine these relationships. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Contaminants and Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 2295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of 6PPD-Quinone on Human Liver Cell Lines as Revealed with Cell Viability Assay and Metabolomics Analysis

by Yunqing Qi, Aiqing Qiu, Xinyue Wei, Yiting Huang, Qing Huang and Wei Huang

Toxics 2024, 12(6), 389; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12060389 - 26 May 2024

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3114

Abstract

N-(1,3-Dimethyl butyl)-N′-phenyl-phenylenediamine-quinone (6PPD-Q) is a derivative of the widely used rubber tire antioxidant 6PPD, which was first found to be acutely toxic to coho salmon. Subsequent studies showed that 6PPD-Q had species-specific acute toxicity in fishes and potential hepatotoxicity in [...] Read more.

N-(1,3-Dimethyl butyl)-N′-phenyl-phenylenediamine-quinone (6PPD-Q) is a derivative of the widely used rubber tire antioxidant 6PPD, which was first found to be acutely toxic to coho salmon. Subsequent studies showed that 6PPD-Q had species-specific acute toxicity in fishes and potential hepatotoxicity in mice. In addition, 6PPD-Q has been reported in human urine, demonstrating the potential widespread exposure of humans to this chemical. However, whether 6PPD-Q poses a higher risk to humans than its parent compound, 6PPD, and could cause adverse effects in humans is still unclear. In this study, we utilized two human liver cell models (the human proto-hepatocyte model L02 and the human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2) to investigate the potentially differential effects of these two chemicals. Cell viability curve analysis showed that 6PPD-Q had lower IC₅₀ values than 6PPD for both liver cell lines, suggesting higher toxicity of 6PPD-Q to human liver cells than 6PPD. In addition, L02 cells are more sensitive to 6PPD-Q exposure, which might be derived from its weaker metabolic transformation of 6PPD-Q, since significantly lower levels of phase I and phase II metabolites were detected in 6PPD-Q-exposed L02 cell culture medium. Furthermore, pathway analysis showed that 6PPD-Q exposure induced changes in phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis and tyrosine metabolism pathways in L02 cells, which might be the mechanism underlying its liver cell toxicity. Gene expression analysis revealed that exposure to 6PPD-Q induced excessive ROS production in L02 cells. Our results further supported the higher risk of 6PPD-Q than 6PPD and provided insights for understanding the effects of 6PPD-Q on human health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Contaminants and Human Health)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

25 pages, 1738 KiB

Open AccessReview

Challenges in Ultra-Trace Beryllium Analysis: Utilizing Recent Extraction Techniques in Combination with Spectrometric Detection

by Lucia Nemček and Ingrid Hagarová

Toxics 2025, 13(4), 289; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13040289 - 9 Apr 2025

Viewed by 453

Abstract

Beryllium (Be) is one of the most toxic non-radioactive elements on the periodic table, and its presence or intake can negatively impact both the environment and human health. Classified as a carcinogen, Be is dangerous even at trace concentrations, stressing the necessity of [...] Read more.

Beryllium (Be) is one of the most toxic non-radioactive elements on the periodic table, and its presence or intake can negatively impact both the environment and human health. Classified as a carcinogen, Be is dangerous even at trace concentrations, stressing the necessity of developing reliable methods for quantifying it at very low levels. Spectrometric techniques for quantifying Be vary in sensitivity and applicability, with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) being the most sensitive for ultra-trace analysis. Flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) is suitable for higher Be concentrations, but preconcentration techniques can significantly lower detection limits. Electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ETAAS) provides enhanced sensitivity for low-level Be quantification, further optimized using pyrolytically coated graphite tubes and chemical modifiers such as Mg(NO₃)₂ or Pd(NO₃)₂. Effective separation and preconcentration techniques are essential for reliable Be quantification in complex matrices. Liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), including single-drop microextraction (SDME) and dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME), have evolved to reduce the use of hazardous solvents. When combined with ETAAS, surfactant-assisted DLLME using agents like cetylpyridinium ammonium bromide (CPAB) and dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (AOT) achieves preconcentration factors of approximately 25, reducing LOD to 1 ng/L. Vesicle-mediated DLLME coupled with ETAAS further enhances sensitivity, allowing detection limits as low as 0.01 ng/L in seawater. Cloud-point extraction (CPE), often employing Triton X-114, facilitates Be extraction using complexing agents or nanomaterials like graphene oxide. These advancements are critical for accurately quantifying Be at ultra-trace levels in diverse environmental and biological samples, overcoming challenges posed by low analyte concentrations and matrix interferences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Contaminants and Human Health)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

14 pages, 3807 KiB

Open AccessReview

Uncovering the Potential Link Between Polychlorinated Biphenyls and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Comprehensive Analysis

by Jingyu Liu, Qiuli Shan, Yang Yang and Wenxing He

Toxics 2025, 13(2), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13020071 - 22 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 744

Abstract

Background: A family of persistent organic pollutants, known as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are extensively found in the environment and may be harmful to the cardiovascular system. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses are required to thoroughly evaluate the association between PCB exposure and cardiovascular disease [...] Read more.

Background: A family of persistent organic pollutants, known as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are extensively found in the environment and may be harmful to the cardiovascular system. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses are required to thoroughly evaluate the association between PCB exposure and cardiovascular disease (CVDs), despite the fact that studies on the subject have produced inconsistent results. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between PCBs exposure and cardiovascular disease risk in order to provide more conclusive data to promote public health actions. Methods: The studies that met the inclusion criteria were screened out using the databases PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library. The comprehensive effect size (OR) was calculated using the random-effects model; the study’s heterogeneity was analyzed using I² statistics; the major reasons of heterogeneity were identified using subgroup analysis; and publication bias graphically was measured using the Egger’s test. Results: A meta-analysis of 11 studies revealed that total PCBs (OR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.20–1.75), non-dioxin-like PCBs (NDL-PCBs) (OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.15–1.53), and dioxin-like PCBs (DL-PCBs) (OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.10–1.57) were all found to be positively associated with the risk of cardiovascular disease. Subgroup analysis revealed that study type, biomaterials, and literature quality were the most significant drivers of variation. Furthermore, certain PCB homologues, such as non-dioxin-like (NDL)-PCB153 and dioxin-like (DL)-PCB118, are highly related with cardiovascular disease. Conclusions: According to this meta-analysis, exposure to PCBs may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Notwithstanding major drawbacks, our results emphasize the significance of lowering exposure to PCBs and offering a solid theoretical basis for public health initiatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Contaminants and Human Health)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 1218 KiB

Open AccessReview

Reproductive Toxicity and Multi/Transgenerational Effects of Emerging Pollutants on C. elegans

by Zhiling Wu, Lingqiao Wang, Weihua Chen, Yiqi Wang, Ke Cui, Weiyan Chen, Jijun Liu, Huidong Jin and Ziyuan Zhou

Toxics 2024, 12(11), 785; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12110785 - 29 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1894

Abstract

Emerging pollutants (EPs) are receiving increasing attention due to the threats they pose to the environment and human health. As EPs continue to emerge, risk assessment requires many model animals. Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) has been an outstanding toxicological model organism [...] Read more.

Emerging pollutants (EPs) are receiving increasing attention due to the threats they pose to the environment and human health. As EPs continue to emerge, risk assessment requires many model animals. Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) has been an outstanding toxicological model organism due to its growth and development characteristics. Particularly, in studying the transgenerational influences of EPs, C. elegans has advantages in saving time and cost due to its short generation cycle. As infertility has become a major problem in human reproductive health, reproductive toxicities of EPs on contemporary nematodes and across generations of C. elegans were introduced in this review. Moreover, the underlying mechanisms involved in germ cell apoptosis, spermatogenesis, and epigenetic alteration were discussed. Future research opportunities and challenges are also discussed to expand our understanding of the reproductive influences of EPs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Contaminants and Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

16 pages, 937 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Association Between Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Exposure and Thyroid Hormones in Men and Non-Pregnant Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Bin Zhang, Meizi Zhao, Xiangru Cong, Chunyu Liu, Chaofei Li, Yu Qiu, Sha Li, Yanying Chen, Xiaoxue Li and Penghui Li

Toxics 2025, 13(3), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13030214 - 14 Mar 2025

Viewed by 985

Abstract

Studies have shown that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may impact thyroid function in human health. While the consistency between PFAS exposure and thyroid health effects in pregnant women has been validated, the effects on men and non-pregnant women remains inconclusive. To address [...] Read more.

Studies have shown that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may impact thyroid function in human health. While the consistency between PFAS exposure and thyroid health effects in pregnant women has been validated, the effects on men and non-pregnant women remains inconclusive. To address this, a meta-analysis was carried out in this paper, with 14 eligible studies retrieved from Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science that were published up to 2 June 2024, focusing on the relationship between PFAS exposure and its effect on thyroid hormone levels in the human body. The thyroid function indexes analyzed included thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), free T3 (FT3), and free T4 (FT4). The estimated value (β) and the corresponding confidence interval (95% CI) were extracted from the literature. A heterogeneity test was carried out, and the sensitivity analysis and publication bias of the studies were analyzed using Stata 18.0. The results revealed that in men and non-pregnant women, PFOA was positively correlated with FT3 (β = 0.011, 95% CI = 0.001, 0.02, I² = 13.4). However, no significant associations were found between exposure to other PFAS and thyroid hormones. A subgroup analysis further indicated that the correlations between PFAS exposure and thyroid hormone levels were more significant in adolescents, in both America and Europe. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Contaminants and Human Health)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Environmental Contaminants and Human Health

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (12 papers)

Research

Review

Other

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI