Food Safety

Chemosphere. 2025 Jul 4;385:144555. doi: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2025.144555. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Pharmaceuticals and personal-care products (PPCPs), pesticides, and per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been detected in lakes far from known point sources. These compounds may be transported into the atmosphere in the gas phase or associated with aerosols or particulates. Here, the CONductor-like Screening MOdel for Realistic Solvation (COSMO-RS) theory is used to estimate key partition ratios for selected chemicals from these classes and used to map their tendency to partition within the atmosphere under typical conditions. In cloud-free conditions, the target chemicals partition to one or more of the organic or aqueous phases of aerosols and the gaseous phase in air. Changing the pH of aerosols in the range 0-7 results in most chemicals shifting from one phase to another. Most acids and bases shift strongly to the water phase under ionizing conditions (i.e., pH 0 for bases and pH 7 for acids. Adjustments to the modelling for an increased volume in the water phase and changes in the pH of aerosols under cloudy conditions results in the prediction that most of these chemicals will partition into water droplets (i.e. rain) at some pH value between 0 and 7. It is proposed that wastewater treatment plants are point sources for PPCPs and possibly PFAS, while agricultural applications are the source of pesticides. Partitioning into the atmosphere and medium- or long-range transport, followed by wet deposition or direct diffusion could explain the presence of many of these chemicals in remote lakes.

PMID:40616862 | DOI:10.1016/j.chemosphere.2025.144555

Behav Brain Res. 2025 Jul 3:115723. doi: 10.1016/j.bbr.2025.115723. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Environmental toxicants are increasingly prevalent worldwide and associated with numerous neurodevelopmental and psychiatric health outcomes. Exposure to these toxicants, particularly during gestation and the early postnatal period, alters maternal and offspring stress responses, inflammation, and behavioral outcomes. Oxytocin (OT) and arginine vasopressin (AVP) are highly conserved neuropeptides with myriad roles in the regulation of social behavior, stress responses, and more. While developmental stress is well known to impact OT and AVP systems, a growing body of literature suggests that early-life exposure to toxicants also impacts OT and AVP system development. Here we review the evidence demonstrating that perinatal exposures to environmental toxicants program developmental trajectories of the OT and AVP systems. Perinatal exposure to flame retardants, pesticides, plastics, and air pollution induces a variety of changes to OT and AVP systems in the brain, affecting the neuropeptides themselves as well as their primary central receptors, the oxytocin receptor (OTR) and the vasopressin receptor 1a (V1aR), respectively. Next, we discuss two biological mechanisms of action that may underlie the effects of toxicant exposure on OT and AVP: endocrine disruption and maternal immune activation. Finally, we explore key factors that promote either risk or resilience to toxicant exposures, including psychosocial experience, sex, the gut microbiome, and dosage/timing of exposure. Cumulatively, the literature reviewed suggests that preventing psychosocial stress to mothers during the perinatal period while promoting positive psychosocial experiences may lessen the impact of toxicants on offspring outcomes. Furthermore, the gut microbiome may be an important intermediary, and therefore target for intervention, between toxicant exposures and OT and AVP systems in the brain.

PMID:40617300 | DOI:10.1016/j.bbr.2025.115723

Environ Int. 2025 Jun 28;202:109633. doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2025.109633. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

We are daily exposed to various environmental contaminants, including heavy metals, with suspected adverse health effects, and children's vulnerability is particularly concerning. Human biomonitoring is crucial for measuring these contaminants and essential elements in the body. The Norwegian Environmental Biobank (NEB), coordinated by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health, has collected biological samples (including blood and urine) and questionnaire data systematically since 2016. Identifying population subgroups at elevated risk is essential for implementing protective measures. This study aimed to describe concentrations of environmental contaminants and essential elements in Norwegian children and explored potential clustering among different contaminants. Additionally, we examined differences across groups defined by family socio-demographic factors. A total of 81 environmental contaminants were measured in urine, plasma, and whole blood from children aged 7-14 years participating in NEB. Twenty-six non-persistent and 24 persistent contaminants were quantified in ≥ 50 % of the samples, along with nine essential elements. Most children had contaminant levels below Human Biomonitoring Guidance Values (HBM-GVs). However, nearly all children had bisphenol A levels exceeding the updated tolerable daily intake set by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and 30 % had blood concentrations of the four most common per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exceeding EFSA's safe limits. Statistically significant differences in contaminant levels were observed between groups defined by sociodemographic variables such as sex, age, region, and degree of urbanization. Network analysis indicated clear clusters of several contaminants. This study shows that Norwegian children are exposed to a broad range of environmental contaminants, with levels similar to those reported in other studies from Europe and globally.

PMID:40614348 | DOI:10.1016/j.envint.2025.109633

Mol Cell Endocrinol. 2025 Jul 2;607:112609. doi: 10.1016/j.mce.2025.112609. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Indiscriminate exposure to chemical substances has emerged as a critical global health concern. Human exposure to emerging contaminants, including pharmaceutical residues, pesticides, food additives, and chemicals employed in packaging and bottle production, is associated with an increased incidence of diseases, including thyroid disorders. Several chemicals potentially dysregulate thyroid embryonic development and the adult hypothalamic‒pituitary‒thyroid (HPT) axis. In this study, we applied systems biology approaches to identify biological processes associated with the most highly upregulated and downregulated genes in human thyroid transcriptome data from both the embryonic and adult stages. As a result, new gene/protein‒chemical interactions linked to recognized toxicities in the thyroid gland and the HPT axis were identified. This analysis identified 195 distinct chemical substances that may interact with these highly expressed proteins and exhibit thyroid toxicity. Our findings underscore the developmental period as a critical window of vulnerability to chemical exposure, with potential adverse effects on thyroid development and programming. Finally, our data suggest new targets for emerging chemicals in the thyroids of adult individuals, potentially compromising thyroid function.

PMID:40615107 | DOI:10.1016/j.mce.2025.112609

Environ Res. 2025 Jul 1;284:122275. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2025.122275. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) increases risks of adverse perinatal outcomes and metabolic disorders in offspring. Some endocrine-disrupting chemicals are presumed to interfere with glucose metabolism. We aimed to assess the association between non-occupational exposures to pesticides and the risk of GDM.

METHODS: The study was conducted on 11 512 women (791 with GDM) from the French nationwide Elfe cohort. Among 114 suspected pesticides identified using a toxicogenomic approach, 62 with detection frequency ≥10 % were analyzed across three sources of exposure: residential use (self-reported, n = 18), agricultural (geographic information system, n = 14) and dietary (estimated by a food-frequency questionnaire and monitoring data of pesticide residues in foods, n = 30). The association between exposure to pesticides (no or low vs. high) and the occurrence of GDM was tested with single and multi-source adjusted logistic regression models.

RESULTS: In the multi-source model, dietary exposure to glyphosate (aOR = 0.6, 95 %CI: 0.5,0.9) or agricultural exposure (aOR = 0.8, 95 %CI:0.6,1.0) were associated with lower odds of GDM. The same effect was identified for two dietary pesticides: epoxiconazole (aOR = 0.6, 95 %CI: 0.5,0.8) and penconazole (aOR = 0.8, 95 %CI: 0.6,1.0). Dietary exposure to cypermethrin (aOR = 1.2, 95 %CI:1.0,1.5) and agricultural exposure to myclobutanil (aOR = 1.4, 95 %CI:1.1,1.9) were associated with higher odds of GDM. No significant association was identified for the residential use of pesticides.

CONCLUSION: This toxico-genomic-based study identifies five pesticides associated with GDM through agricultural or dietary exposure. These findings provide new insights into environmental contributors to GDM. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying toxicological mechanisms and confirm these associations.

PMID:40609722 | DOI:10.1016/j.envres.2025.122275

Ecotoxicology. 2025 Jul 2. doi: 10.1007/s10646-025-02922-8. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Butachlor is one of the most widely used herbicides in agricultural areas throughout the world. Studies have measured the toxicity of butachlor in single life stages of amphibians, however, less attention has been paid to the impacts of this herbicide on various life stages. Therefore, we collected the eggs of the green toad Bufotes viridis sitibundus from a clean environment with no history of pesticides. We then exposed the collected eggs to environmentally relevant concentrations of butachlor (1.5, 1, 0.8, 0.6, 0.4, and 0.1 mg/L) and measured the growth, survival, and development of green toads during the incubation period. We also measured five different responses i.e., length at the beginning of metamorphosis (LBM), length at the formation of forelimb bud (LFF), length at the end of metamorphosis (LEM), weight at the beginning of metamorphosis (WBM), and weight at the end of metamorphosis (WEM) during the incubation period. The survival rate showed an indirect relationship with butachlor concentrations. The longest development duration was recorded for toads reared in the control (110 days), while the shortest duration (9 days) was observed in the highest butachlor concentration (i.e., 1.5 mg/L), with the highest mortality recorded in this treatment- all the eggs dying by days 11 and 9 after the start of incubation. We found a significant difference between the survival of toads in butachlor treatments and the control group (P < 0.05). We observed a significant difference between treatments and the control group in LBM, LFF, LEM, and WEM (P < 0.05), except WBM (P > 0.05). Our findings highlight that butachlor, at environmentally relevant concentrations, inhibited the development of the green toad and mitigated the survival of eggs and larvae, resulting in the unsuccessful completion of development before metamorphosis, a critical life stage.

PMID:40601209 | DOI:10.1007/s10646-025-02922-8

Environ Pollut. 2025 Jun 30;382:126750. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126750. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are emerging environmental contaminants with known persistence, bioaccumulation potential, and ecotoxicological relevance. This study investigates the occurrence, distribution, and potential exposure pathways of PFAS in honey bee-related matrices (pollen, forager bees, hive bees). Samples were collected from six sites over a full season representing diverse land uses (urban, semi-urban, rural, and agricultural). A total of nine different PFAS were detected across 90 samples, with short-chain compounds such as 4:2 FTS, PFPS, and PFBS predominating. Hive bees exhibited the highest average sum of target PFAS concentration (5.29 ng g^ꟷ1), followed by forager bees (1.93 ng g^ꟷ1), and pollen (1.10 ng g^ꟷ1). Differences in PFAS occurrence among sample types, especially PFPS between forager and hive bees, suggested various exposure routes, including pollen ingestion, atmospheric deposition, and contact with contaminated surfaces. Temporal and spatial differences were notable. Site-specific PFAS patterns highlighted potential contamination sources, such as fluorinated pesticide use, while seasonal variation suggested influence from plant phenology and rainfall. Principal component analysis (PCA) confirmed the dominance of shared PFAS profiles, with some outlier samples exhibiting unique signatures. PFPS and PFBS were positively correlated with total fluorine (TF) concentrations, while 4:2 FTS showed a strong site-specific association. Extractable organic fluorine (EOF) remained below detection limits (800 ng F g^ꟷ1), but TF was present in all samples above LOD (500 ng F g^ꟷ1) confirming the presence of additional unidentified fluorinated compounds. Although EOF and PFAS concentrations varied, we showed that forager bees can introduce PFAS in the hive, either on their bodies, or through contaminated resources such as nectar or pollen. These findings demonstrate the suitability of honey bees as bioindicators for PFAS contamination but emphasise the need for harmonized sampling to fully assess PFAS exposure dynamics.

PMID:40602640 | DOI:10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126750

Toxicol Lett. 2025 Jul 1;411:16-24. doi: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2025.06.019. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The extensive application of chemicals in the form of pesticides, cosmetics, drugs, etc., has been shown to adversely affect humans and the environment, mainly through food product residues and environmental exposure. Exposure to diverse chemicals through various routes including ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact is associated with multiple health risks including endocrine disruption, cancer, and neurotoxicity. This study presents an advanced computational approach using quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) and quantitative read-across structure-activity relationship (q-RASAR) models to predict the acute toxicity of diverse chemicals in humans, with the negative logarithm of the lowest published toxic dose (pTDLo) endpoint. We developed the first-ever predictive toxicity models combining QSAR and similarity-based read-across techniques to enhance accuracy, utilizing the TOXRIC database. The q-RASAR model outperformed traditional QSAR approaches, achieving robust statistical performance with internal validation metrics of R² = 0.710, Q² = 0.658, and external validation metrics of Q²_F1 = 0.812, Q²_F2 = 0.812, Δr²_m(test) = 0.087 and r_m(test)²̅ = 0.741. The model identified the key structural features, such as high coefficients and variations in similarity values among closely related compounds, the presence of carbon-carbon bonds at specific topological distances (5 and 8), and higher minimum E-state indices, all of which are linked to increased toxicity toward humans. The PLS-based q-RASAR model was further utilized to screen pesticides obtained from the pesticide properties database (PPDB) and 3660 investigational drugs from the DrugBank database for potential toxicants in humans, providing a tool to identify hazardous substances and mitigate risks. The developed models are instrumental in filling eco-toxicological data gaps and facilitating the development of novel, safe, and eco-friendly chemicals.

PMID:40602695 | DOI:10.1016/j.toxlet.2025.06.019

In a joint discussion, Members of the ENVI and AGRI Committees will examine the draft report by co-rapporteurs Alexander Bernhuber (EPP, ENVI) and Anna Strolenberg (Greens/EFA, AGRI) on ensuring faster registration and uptake of biological control agents. The report responds to the Commission's upcoming legislative proposal, expected in Q4 2025, to facilitate the market access of biopesticides, as announced in the Communication "A Vision for Agriculture and Food." The co-rapporteurs call for a legal definition of biological control agents and a framework for their accelerated authorisation to enhance legal certainty, foster investment in sustainable alternatives and prevent market fragmentation. They stress the need for a fast-track procedure, financial support, and increased knowledge exchange and capacity-building regarding both approval processes and Integrated Pest Management. ENVI and AGRI Members will now submit amendments, with a vote foreseen in the October II plenary.

Toxicol Appl Pharmacol. 2025 Jun 28:117454. doi: 10.1016/j.taap.2025.117454. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Carbamate pesticides (CMs), which are widely applied in agricultural production and living environments, have been confirmed to exhibit disruptive effects on lipid metabolism as environmental endocrine disruptors. The present study aims to investigate the inhibition behavior of CMs on the activity of the critical hydrolytic enzymes, carboxylesterase 1 (CES1) and carboxylesterase 2 (CES2), to elucidate the toxicity mechanisms from a novel perspective. Based on network toxicology analysis, CESs were identified as potential targets for CMs-induced lipid metabolism disorders. In vitro incubation experiments demonstrated that most CMs strongly inhibited the activity of CES1 and CES2, with inhibition ratios exceeding 80 %. Kinetic studies and in vitro-in vivo extrapolation revealed that CMs might disrupt the metabolic homeostasis of lipids by inhibiting CESs in vivo. Molecular docking results revealed that hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic contacts formed by ester bonds contributed to the interaction of CMs towards CESs. Cellular fluorescence imaging confirmed the inhibition of CMs on CESs in HepG2 cells. These findings provide new experimental evidence for understanding the mechanism of CMs-mediated lipid metabolism disorders through inhibition on CESs.

PMID:40588104 | DOI:10.1016/j.taap.2025.117454

iScience. 2025 May 29;28(7):112779. doi: 10.1016/j.isci.2025.112779. eCollection 2025 Jul 18.

ABSTRACT

We conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate relevant literature published between January 2003 and December 2023 in order to provide updated epidemiological evidence on the relationship between endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). A systematic search of related studies was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase. A total of 21 studies were included, with 286,610 subjects for meta-analysis. Analysis revealed that exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (odds ratio [OR] = 1.08, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03-1.14) posed a risk for NDs, while organochlorine pesticide (OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.05-1.17) exposure exhibited a positive correlation with ND risk. Subgroup analysis by disease indicated a positive association between EDC exposure and Alzheimer's disease (OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.00-1.07) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (OR = 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01-1.03) risk. Our meta-analysis indicates that human exposure to EDCs has adverse effects on NDs.

PMID:40585363 | PMC:PMC12205615 | DOI:10.1016/j.isci.2025.112779

Environ Int. 2025 Jun 16;202:109612. doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2025.109612. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Exposure to non-persistent endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is widespread, causing various adverse health effects, especially during pregnancy. Diet is a major source of EDCs and the identification of dietary patterns that give rise to higher exposure levels is crucial. We aimed to explore the relationship between dietary patterns during pregnancy and exposure to non-persistent EDCs.

METHODS: We included 640 pregnant women from the Barcelona Life Study Cohort (BiSC), Spain. Using food frequency questionnaires (2nd trimester), we estimated ultraprocessed food (UPF) consumption and Mediterranean diet adherence, and derived data-driven dietary patterns. Metabolites of phthalates, 1,2-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid di(isononyl) ester (DINCH), chlorpyrifos and pyrethroid, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs, including phenanthrenes), and organophosphates, and parent compounds of phenols and parabens were measured in weekly urine pools (3rd trimester). Associations between dietary patterns and EDCs were evaluated through multivariable linear regressions.

RESULTS: Higher compliance with a "Vegetarian" pattern or the Mediterranean diet was associated with lower levels of some of the phthalate metabolites (e.g., di-iso-nonyl phthalates [Geometric mean ratio (GMR) per unit increases in the "Vegetarian" score = 0.97, 95 %CI 0.95, 1.00]). Conversely, "Western" and "Animal protein" patterns, and UPF intake were associated with higher PAHs (e.g., "Western" and 2-Hydroxynaphthalene [GMR(95 %CI) 1.07(1.01, 1.13)]), pesticides (e.g., "Animal protein" and 3-Phenoxybenzoic acid [1.15(1.01, 1.32]), and phthalates metabolites levels (e.g., UPF and Monoethyl phthalate [1.05(1.01, 1.09)]). No association remained significant after correcting for multiple testing.

CONCLUSIONS: Following a plant-based diet may help reduce the exposure to certain phthalate and organophosphate metabolites, whereas higher consumption of foods from animal origin and high in fat/sugar/salt may increase exposure to PAHs, pesticides, and phthalates metabolites in pregnancy.

PMID:40578114 | DOI:10.1016/j.envint.2025.109612

Environ Pollut. 2025 Jun 25;382:126727. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126727. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are endocrine disruptors, and previous studies have shown that OCPs exposure is associated with hormone levels in the general population. However, there is limited evidence regarding the effects of prenatal OCPs exposure on steroid concentrations in offspring. To explore the association between prenatal OCPs exposure and offspring steroid levels, we designed a cross-sectional study including 981 mother-infant pairs. Cord serum concentrations of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) and steroids were measured. Multiple linear regression models were used to examine the relationships between OCPs exposure and steroids levels in cord blood. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) models were used to assess the dose-response relationships between selected OCPs and steroids. Results showed that OCPs exposure was associated with decreased steroids levels of newborns and the associations were dose-dependent. Specifically, we found that estradiol decreased by 11.17 % (95 % CI: -16.95 %, -4.99 %) and 9.28 % (95 % CI: -14.94 %, -3.24 %) with each 10-fold increase in β-HCH and p,p'-DDE, respectively. Cortisol decreased by 14.99 % (95 % CI: -23.19 %, -5.93 %) with each 10-fold increase in p,p'-DDE. Furthermore, these associations were more pronounced in male infants and those born by cesarean section. In conclusion, this study presented robust disrupting effects of β-HCH and p,p'-DDE exposure on estradiol and cortisol.

PMID:40578747 | DOI:10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126727

Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Jun 17;26(12):5788. doi: 10.3390/ijms26125788.

ABSTRACT

Mitochondria are primary targets for environmental toxic chemicals; these typically disrupt the mitochondrial electron transport chain, resulting in reduced ATP production, increased reactive oxygen free radical species (ROS)-induced oxidative stress, increased apoptosis, and increased inflammation. This in turn suggests a rationale for investigating the potential role of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in mediating such chemical-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, given the key roles of CoQ10 in promoting normal mitochondrial function, and as an antioxidant and anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory agent. In the present article, we have, therefore, reviewed the potential role of supplementary CoQ10 in improving mitochondrial function and mediating adverse effects following exposure to a number of environmental toxins, including pesticides, heavy metals, industrial solvents, endocrine-disrupting agents, and carcinogens, as well as pharmacological drugs and lifestyle toxicants.

PMID:40565253 | PMC:PMC12193255 | DOI:10.3390/ijms26125788

Toxics. 2025 May 23;13(6):427. doi: 10.3390/toxics13060427.

ABSTRACT

Phoxim is a pesticide extensively applied in mulberry fields, and residues may persist on leaves even after the recommended pre-harvest interval. However, the potential risks of these residues to Bombyx mori L. (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae) have long been overlooked. The results demonstrated that chronic low-dose exposure from the second to fifth instars significantly impaired silkworm development and silk production. Specifically, larvae in the 0.316 μg/mL treatment group (1/2 LC₅₀) exhibited a significant reduction in body weight, while the cocoon shell ratio was significantly decreased in both the 0.079 μg/mL (1/8 LC₅₀) and 1/2 LC₅₀ groups. Cocoon deformities were observed in the 0.032 μg/mL (1/20 LC₅₀), 1/8 LC₅₀, and 1/2 LC₅₀ groups. Histopathological analysis revealed silk gland damage in the treatment groups, with severity increasing with higher phoxim concentrations. Biochemical analyses indicated elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels accompanied by increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) activities. Notably, phoxim exposure selectively reduced juvenile hormone (JH) titers without affecting ecdysone titers. JH-regulated genes including the receptors Met1 and Met2, and transcription factors Kr-h1 and Dimm were downregulated, accompanied by suppressed expression of the fibroin synthesis gene Fib-H. These results collectively indicate that chronic low-concentration phoxim exposure disrupts endocrine regulation, damages silk gland integrity, and ultimately reduces silk production in silkworm.

PMID:40559901 | PMC:PMC12196826 | DOI:10.3390/toxics13060427

Toxics. 2025 May 29;13(6):454. doi: 10.3390/toxics13060454.

ABSTRACT

Bifenthrin (BF) is a widely used pyrethroid pesticide recognized as an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC). Previous studies have confirmed that chronic exposure to BF is associated with various health risks. However, its potential association with recurrent implantation failure (RIF) and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) remains unclear. In this study, the potential targets of BF were identified using several databases, including the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD), TargetNet, GeneCards, SwissTargetPrediction, and STITCH. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with RIF were obtained from bulk RNA-seq datasets in the GEO database. Candidate targets were identified by intersecting the predicted BF-related targets with the RIF-associated DEGs, followed by functional enrichment analysis using the DAVID and g:Profiler platforms. Subsequently, hub genes were identified based on the STRING database and Cytoscape. A diagnostic model was then constructed based on these hub genes in the RIF cohort and validated in an independent recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) cohort. Additionally, we performed single-cell type distribution analysis and immune infiltration profiling based on single-cell RNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq data, respectively. Molecular docking analysis using AutoDock Vina was conducted to evaluate the binding affinity between BF and the four hub proteins, as well as several hormone-related receptors. Functional enrichment results indicated that the candidate genes were mainly involved in apoptotic and oxidative stress-related pathways. Ultimately, four hub genes-BCL2, HMOX1, CYCS, and PTGS2-were identified. The diagnostic model based on these genes exhibited good predictive performance in the RIF cohort and was successfully validated in the RPL cohort. Single-cell transcriptomic analysis revealed a significant increase in the proportion of myeloid cells in RPL patients, while immune infiltration analysis showed a consistent downregulation of M2 macrophages in both RIF and RPL. Moreover, molecular docking analysis revealed that BF exhibited high binding affinity to all four hub proteins and demonstrated strong binding potential with multiple hormone receptors, particularly pregnane X receptor (PXR), estrogen receptor α (ESRα), and thyroid hormone receptors (TR). In conclusion, the association of BF with four hub genes and multiple hormone receptors suggests a potential link to immune and endocrine dysregulation observed in RIF and RPL. However, in vivo and in vitro experimental evidence is currently lacking, and further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms by which BF may contribute to RIF and RPL.

PMID:40559927 | PMC:PMC12196838 | DOI:10.3390/toxics13060454

Ecotoxicol Environ Saf. 2025 Jun 24;302:118574. doi: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2025.118574. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The aim of this umbrella review was to evaluate the quality, potential biases, and validity of the existing evidence on the relationship between endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) exposure and health outcomes, through a comprehensive review of available meta-analyses. The included meta-analyses were searched across multiple databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. This umbrella review included systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, and cross-sectional studies that assessed the impact of EDCs exposure on various health outcomes in humans. The search resulted in the identification of 67 meta-analyses and 109 health outcomes from 7552 unique articles. All of these 109 health outcomes were derived from meta-analyses of observational studies. EDCs exposure included pesticides (n = 30), BPA (n = 13), PAHs (n = 18), PFAS (n = 10), and heavy metals (n = 38). Sixty-nine harmful associations were found to be statistically significant, along with one beneficial association. The remaining 39 outcomes were either harmful or beneficial but did not reach statistical significance. Significant harmful associations between EDCs exposure and 22 cancer outcomes, 21 neonatal/infant/child-related outcomes, 18 metabolic disorder outcomes, 17 cardiovascular disease outcomes, 11 pregnancy-related outcomes, and 20 other outcomes (renal, neuropsychiatric, respiratory, and hematologic) were detected. Exposure to environmental EDCs is closely linked to a wide range of adverse health outcomes. Given the widespread exposure to these pollutants globally, precautionary policies may be warranted to reduce population-level exposure and mitigate potential health risks associated with environmental chemicals.

PMID:40561611 | DOI:10.1016/j.ecoenv.2025.118574

Ecotoxicol Environ Saf. 2025 Jun 24;302:118574. doi: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2025.118574. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The aim of this umbrella review was to evaluate the quality, potential biases, and validity of the existing evidence on the relationship between endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) exposure and health outcomes, through a comprehensive review of available meta-analyses. The included meta-analyses were searched across multiple databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. This umbrella review included systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, and cross-sectional studies that assessed the impact of EDCs exposure on various health outcomes in humans. The search resulted in the identification of 67 meta-analyses and 109 health outcomes from 7552 unique articles. All of these 109 health outcomes were derived from meta-analyses of observational studies. EDCs exposure included pesticides (n = 30), BPA (n = 13), PAHs (n = 18), PFAS (n = 10), and heavy metals (n = 38). Sixty-nine harmful associations were found to be statistically significant, along with one beneficial association. The remaining 39 outcomes were either harmful or beneficial but did not reach statistical significance. Significant harmful associations between EDCs exposure and 22 cancer outcomes, 21 neonatal/infant/child-related outcomes, 18 metabolic disorder outcomes, 17 cardiovascular disease outcomes, 11 pregnancy-related outcomes, and 20 other outcomes (renal, neuropsychiatric, respiratory, and hematologic) were detected. Exposure to environmental EDCs is closely linked to a wide range of adverse health outcomes. Given the widespread exposure to these pollutants globally, precautionary policies may be warranted to reduce population-level exposure and mitigate potential health risks associated with environmental chemicals.

PMID:40561611 | DOI:10.1016/j.ecoenv.2025.118574

Insects. 2025 Jun 17;16(6):639. doi: 10.3390/insects16060639.

ABSTRACT

(1) Background: Aquatic organisms are more sensitive to pollutants than terrestrial ones, making them ideal for ecotoxicology studies. Chironomids, a key bioindicator species, have been widely used in environmental pollution research. With the continuous deepening of research on water environmental pollution and the continuous development of molecular biology, it is therefore very important to understand the current research progress of the toxicology of chironomids. (2) Methods: This study used bibliometrics to analyze 1465 publications on chironomid toxicology from the Web of Science and PubMed databases, aiming to reveal research trends, hotspots, and future directions. The data analysis involved Microsoft Excel, VOS viewer, CiteSpace, and ChatGLM. (3) Results: Heavy metals, pesticides, and microplastics were the main pollutants studied, with Chironomus riparius being the most researched species. The analysis indicated a growing research trend since 1998, reflecting an increasing global concern over aquatic pollution. This study concludes that more molecular-level research is needed to uncover toxic mechanisms and improve environmental risk assessments. (4) Conclusions: This work will aid scientists and policymakers in developing better pollution control strategies and conservation efforts for aquatic ecosystems, ultimately contributing to environmental protection and public health.

PMID:40559069 | PMC:PMC12194523 | DOI:10.3390/insects16060639

Toxics. 2025 May 29;13(6):455. doi: 10.3390/toxics13060455.

ABSTRACT

Endosulfan, a persistent organochlorine pesticide, has raised global concern due to its toxicological effects on human health and the environment. The popularity of endosulfan was driven by its effectiveness and low cost compared to alternative insecticides. The compound's environmental persistence and bioaccumulative properties also contributed to its sustained use over several decades. Despite regulatory bans in many countries, residues of endosulfan continue to be detected in soil, water, and food sources, posing a threat through chronic exposure. Although endosulfan has been listed in the Stockholm Convention as a persistent organic pollutant targeted for global elimination, it is still used illegally in some countries. This mini-review synthesizes current knowledge on its toxicological profile, including neurotoxicity, endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, potential carcinogenicity, and acute poisoning, based on the latest scientific literature. The paper also highlights current regulatory frameworks, historical usage trends, global distribution and alternatives to endosulfan in agriculture. Understanding the scope of its health impacts and ongoing risks is crucial for policymakers, researchers, and public health authorities seeking to protect populations from legacy pollutants. In addition, recognizing the long-term impacts of endosulfan is essential for effective health risk assessment, environmental monitoring, and the promotion of safer alternatives.

PMID:40559928 | PMC:PMC12196845 | DOI:10.3390/toxics13060455

Crit Rev Anal Chem. 2025 Jun 24:1-17. doi: 10.1080/10408347.2025.2521734. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Metabolomics is the study of low molecular weight compounds, both endogenous and exogenous, present in an organism's cells, tissues, or biological fluids. In recent years it has gained significant attention in environmental research for assessing different environmental exposures-primarily chemical pollutants-affect the metabolism of organisms, including humans. Metabolomics has therefore emerged as a crucial technique in exposome investigations, enabling the exploration of molecular-level biological effect of xenobiotics. This review highlights recent applications of metabolomics in evaluating the environmental impacts of disturbances such as pesticides, pharmaceuticals and personal care products, nanoparticles, polychlorinated biphenyls, heavy metals, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, microplastics and changes in naturally occurring compounds with an emphasis on humans, microorganisms, aquatic organisms, plants and soils. It also provides an overview of analytical technologies and recent advances in the field of ecometabolomics. Furthermore, the review acknowledges persistent challenges including sample heterogeneity, complex matrix, data overload, methodological variability, communication barriers and regulatory hurdles. Despite these challenges, metabolomics holds substantial promise in environmental applications.

PMID:40555547 | DOI:10.1080/10408347.2025.2521734

Environ Technol. 2025 Jun 24:1-10. doi: 10.1080/09593330.2025.2521515. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Microplastics (MPs) can coexist with pesticides in soil for a long period, forming combined pollution. Brassica chinensis L was used as the test plant and the differences in the effects of traditional microplastic polyethylene (PE MPs) and biodegradable microplastic polylactic acid (PLA MPs) alone and combination with cypermethrin pesticide on plants were studied. The results showed that the inhibitory effect of the PLA MPs on Brassica chinensis L was greater than PE MPs and that the inhibitory effect of microplastics in combination with cypermethrin pesticides was greater than that of microplastics alone. Brassica chinensis L avoided oxidative damage by increasing the stress level at a low PE MP concentration (2%) and the antioxidant defense capability gradually weakened as the concentration increased. As the concentration of PLA MPs increased, the oxidative damage of plant roots was further aggravated. The biomass and quality of Brassica chinensis L showed the pattern of 'low promotion and high inhibition' whether PE MPs were treated alone or combined with cypermethrin pesticides. While PLA MPs treatment groups showed a pattern of 'stronger inhibition with increasing microplastic concentration'.

PMID:40556035 | DOI:10.1080/09593330.2025.2521515

Mar Pollut Bull. 2025 Jun 23;219:118319. doi: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.118319. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The contamination of marine environments by chemical pollutants poses a significant threat to both ecosystem health and human food safety, affecting marine One Health by disrupting the interconnected well-being of organisms, ecosystems, and humans. A diverse array of contaminants including metals, persistent organic pollutants, pharmaceuticals, personal care products, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), pesticides, among others, can accumulate in fish and seafood, raising concerns over dietary exposure. While regulations like the EU Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) establish limits for certain contaminants, many emerging pollutants remain unregulated, and their long-term impacts are poorly understood. This review compiles global data from 2018 to 2024 on the occurrence of both regulated and unregulated contaminants in fishery products across different FAO zones. It provides an overview of contamination levels in various species, regional trends, and potential human health risks. Our findings highlight the widespread presence of plastic additive chemicals (e.g., phthalates, bisphenols), legacy contaminants (e.g., PCBs, pesticides, mercury), and advancement in PFAS monitoring, though still underreported in several regions together with other emerging contaminants including personal care products and industrial chemicals. Arsenic frequently appeared at higher concentrations than other regulated metals. Contaminant profiles varied by tissue type and species group. These findings emphasize the need for harmonized environmental regulations and expanded monitoring efforts. Future research should focus on cumulative exposure risks, mixture toxicity assessments, and the development of standardized methodologies for broader range of contaminants. Strengthening these practices is critical to safeguarding marine biodiversity and ensuring seafood safety for global consumers.

PMID:40554911 | DOI:10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.118319

Environ Res. 2025 Jun 19;283:122198. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2025.122198. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

In recent times, the widespread use of PFAS, combined with their persistence and mobility, has led to global environmental contamination and human bioaccumulation. Mapping PFAS exposure in children at critical developmental stages (4, 8, and 14 years) is essential to assess early exposure and its relationship with living place, biological sex and potential health outcomes. In this work, plasma samples from two regions of Gipuzkoa have been analyzed from 207 children at early childhood, 241 children, and 167 adolescents in the INMA Gipuzkoa Spanish birth cohort (2011-2022) for 42 targeted PFAS. The results confirmed 18 different PFAS, including long and short-chain congeners, precursors, and emerging PFAS. The most detected PFAS were PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, PFDA, and PFHxS, with detection frequencies of 70-97 %. At 4 years, children showed the highest detection frequencies, while short-chain PFAS detection (PFBA, FPrPA, PFBS, PFPeA) increased when they reached puberty indicating a change on the environmental exposure patterns. The samples coming from the Urola region showed higher concentrations, exceeding the EFSA limit for chronic exposure to sum of 4 PFAS (PFNA, PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS) in 26-35 % of 14-year-old males and females. PFOA concentrations, in particular, increased between the 8- and 14-year follow-up in this region indicating an exposure between follow-ups. No significant differences were found between sexes for the total PFAS burden but for individual PFAS with overall higher levels in males at 14 years. Hazard quotient assessments employing points of departure taken from literature indicated no risk or moderate risk for hepatic and developmental effects in the general studied population. Finally, multivariate linear regression models showed that maternal PFAS levels and breastfeeding duration were positively associated with children's PFAS concentrations in early development, while environmental or regional factors became more influential with age. Parental socioeconomic status did not emerge as a significant predictor in the models.

PMID:40543869 | DOI:10.1016/j.envres.2025.122198

Int J Environ Health Res. 2025 Jun 20:1-27. doi: 10.1080/09603123.2025.2521438. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Global epidemic of diabetes mellitus (DM) is a multifactorial metabolic disorder that includes insulin resistance, β-cell dysfunction, and chronic hyperglycemia. DM is known traditionally as lifestyle and genetic predisposition, but the role of environmental pollutants, especially pesticides, has increasingly been at the forefront of attention. Pesticides such as organophosphates, organochlorines, carbamates, and pyrethroids are strong endocrine disruptors, disturbing glucose homeostasis by inhibiting insulin signaling pathways, producing oxidative stress, and activating chronic inflammation. The pesticides enhance the generation of reactive oxygen species that causes mitochondrial impairment, β-cell apoptosis, and lipid peroxidation. It is worsened further by the mediators like TNF-α and IL-6 that have their activity enhanced via the pathways NF-κB and MAPK. Studies have shown an increased prevalence of DM associated with chronic pesticide exposure. The experimental studies support these findings and indicate that low-dose, long-term exposure impairs pancreatic β-cell function, decreases insulin secretion, and modifies adipokine profiles. This review highlights the biochemical and molecular mechanisms involved in pesticide-induced diabetogenesis as described by epidemiological and in vivo studies. The conclusion underlined a critical need for regulatory policies and robust longitudinal studies to address the diabetogenic effects of pesticide residues in herbal formulations, ensuring safety and efficacy while safeguarding global metabolic health.

PMID:40538288 | DOI:10.1080/09603123.2025.2521438

J Ovarian Res. 2025 Jun 18;18(1):134. doi: 10.1186/s13048-025-01714-2.

ABSTRACT

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a prevalent condition that impacts female reproductive health and overall well-being. It is characterized by ovarian dysfunction, estrogen deficiency, and increased gonadotropin levels in women under 40 years old. The exact etiology and pathogenesis of POI remain incompletely understood, posing significant challenges for its treatment and prevention. This review article examines the pathogenic factors and mechanisms involved in POI, with a particular focus on the impact of environmental toxicants such as atmospheric particulate matter, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, pesticides, microplastics, heavy metals, and cigarette smoke on the development of POI. Furthermore, the treatments for POI are outlined, encompassing hormone replacement therapy, stem cell and exosome therapy, melatonin therapy, traditional Chinese medicine, in vitro activation, platelet-rich plasma therapy, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation. The primary objective is to raise awareness about the potential detrimental effects of environmental toxicant exposure on ovarian function and reserve, urging individuals to minimize their exposure to harmful substances and advocate for environmental protection. This review also aims to serve as a valuable resource for the prevention and management of POI.

PMID:40533774 | PMC:PMC12175422 | DOI:10.1186/s13048-025-01714-2

J Ovarian Res. 2025 Jun 18;18(1):134. doi: 10.1186/s13048-025-01714-2.

ABSTRACT

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a prevalent condition that impacts female reproductive health and overall well-being. It is characterized by ovarian dysfunction, estrogen deficiency, and increased gonadotropin levels in women under 40 years old. The exact etiology and pathogenesis of POI remain incompletely understood, posing significant challenges for its treatment and prevention. This review article examines the pathogenic factors and mechanisms involved in POI, with a particular focus on the impact of environmental toxicants such as atmospheric particulate matter, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, pesticides, microplastics, heavy metals, and cigarette smoke on the development of POI. Furthermore, the treatments for POI are outlined, encompassing hormone replacement therapy, stem cell and exosome therapy, melatonin therapy, traditional Chinese medicine, in vitro activation, platelet-rich plasma therapy, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation. The primary objective is to raise awareness about the potential detrimental effects of environmental toxicant exposure on ovarian function and reserve, urging individuals to minimize their exposure to harmful substances and advocate for environmental protection. This review also aims to serve as a valuable resource for the prevention and management of POI.

PMID:40533774 | PMC:PMC12175422 | DOI:10.1186/s13048-025-01714-2

J Hazard Mater. 2025 Jun 15;495:138946. doi: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.138946. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Black recycled polyethylene pellets were collected from India, Nigeria and Taiwan. These pellet samples were used to create water leachates (in zebrafish medium at 10 and 30 g/L for 24 or 48 h), which were then used to expose zebrafish embryos (up to 120 h post fertilization), followed by fish embryo toxicity (FET) tests, mRNA analyses and larval swimming behavior assessments. The leachates were analyzed for chemicals using Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry techniques. Zebrafish experiments revealed upregulation in mRNA expression in genes associated with endocrine regulation including thyroid hormone systems as well as adipogenesis and lipid metabolism. FET and behavior tests did not show significant impacts. Chemical analyses identified 84 different substances in the leachates, including plastics additives as well as other non-intentionally added substances such as pesticides and pharmaceuticals. These findings have implications for the use of recycled plastics, especially in products where they may come into contact with humans or other organisms, exposing individuals or the environment to harmful chemical mixtures with potentially adverse health effects. The complex mixture of chemicals in these recycled plastics highlights the need for improved transparency and traceability across the plastics lifecycle, and the importance of limiting use of hazardous chemicals in plastics.

PMID:40532368 | DOI:10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.138946

Environ Epidemiol. 2025 Jun 11;9(4):e402. doi: 10.1097/EE9.0000000000000402. eCollection 2025 Aug.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Prenatal exposure to environmental chemicals may be associated with autism or autistic-like behaviors. Previous studies suggest that these associations are stronger when folic acid (FA) supplementation is lower.

METHODS: We used data from the Maternal-Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals study, a Canadian pregnancy and birth cohort (2008-2011). We considered five separate chemical mixtures (measured during the first trimester of pregnancy): metals, organochlorine pesticides, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and persistent organic pollutants (POPs; including organochlorine pesticides, PFAS, PCBs, and one polybrominated diphenyl ether congener). Autistic-like behaviors were documented in 601 3-4-year-old children with the social responsiveness scale-2 (SRS-2), where higher T-scores denote more behaviors. We used quantile g-computation to estimate the mixture-SRS-2 associations and assessed whether gestational FA supplementation and plasma total folate concentrations modified these associations.

RESULTS: The PFAS mixture was associated with decreased SRS-2 T-scores (Ψ = -0.5; 95% confidence interval [CI] = -1.1, 0.1). The metal-SRS-2 associations were stronger in the positive direction among participants with high (>1,000 μg/d) FA supplementation (Ψ = 2.4; 95% CI = 0.8, 3.9) versus those with adequate (400-1,000 μg/d) supplementation (Ψ = -0.2; 95% CI = -1.1, 0.7) (p-interaction = 0.003). Plasma total folate concentrations similarly modified these associations (p-interaction = 0.01). The associations between the PFAS, PCB, and POP mixtures and SRS-2 T-scores were stronger in the positive direction among participants with low (<400 μg/d) versus adequate FA supplementation. This was not observed when assessing modification by plasma total folate concentrations.

CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that the metal mixture is more strongly associated with autistic-like behaviors among participants with higher folate exposure, and the PFAS, PCB, and POP mixtures are more strongly associated with autistic-like behaviors among participants with low FA supplementation.

PMID:40520483 | PMC:PMC12160746 | DOI:10.1097/EE9.0000000000000402

Front Toxicol. 2025 May 30;7:1530209. doi: 10.3389/ftox.2025.1530209. eCollection 2025.

ABSTRACT

The global concern about plastics has been amplified due to their widespread contamination in the environment and their ability to cross biological barriers in living organisms. However, our understanding of their bioaccumulation, toxicity, and interaction with other environmental pollutants remains limited. Plastics are classified into three categories: macro-(MAP > 5 mm), micro-(MIP, <5 mm), and nanoplastics (NAP≤ 100 nm). Among these, NAPs have superior sorption capacity, a large surface area, and a greater ability to release co-contaminants into tissues, resulting in more complex and harmful effects compared to MAPs and MIPs. To assess the toxic effects of NAPs, particularly their genotoxicity in fish, we carried out a bibliographic search in PubMed using the search terms "nanoplastics" and "fish," which yielded 233 articles. These studies focused on various polymers including polyamide (PA), polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polypropylene (PPP), polystyrene (PS), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). We further refined our search by including fish species such as common carp, fathead minnows, medaka, tilapia, trout, and zebrafish and selected 114 articles for review. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge on the effects of NAPs on fishes, emphasizing their interaction with co-contaminants including metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, antibiotics, plastic additives, and endocrine disruptors found in the aquatic environments. Our findings indicate that among fish species, zebrafish (∼68%) is the most frequently studied, while PS (∼89%) is the most commonly encountered NAP in the aquatic ecosystems. Despite substantial experimental variability, our systematic review highlights that NAPs accumulate in various tissues of fish including the skin, muscle, gill, gut, liver, heart, gonads, and brain across all developmental stages, from embryos to adults. NAP exposure leads to significant adverse effects including increased oxidative stress, decreased locomotor and foraging activities, altered growth, immunity, lipid metabolism, and induced neurotoxicity. Furthermore, NAP exposure modulates estrogen-androgen-thyroid-steroidogenesis (EATS) pathways and shows potential intergenerational effects. Although the USEPA and EU are aware of the global impacts of plastic pollution, the prolonged persistence of plastics continues to pose a significant risk to both aquatic life and human health.

PMID:40521127 | PMC:PMC12163001 | DOI:10.3389/ftox.2025.1530209

Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins. 2025 Jun 13. doi: 10.1007/s12602-025-10615-1. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Environmental and chemical contaminants from industrial and agricultural sources increasingly threaten food safety worldwide. These contaminants, including bacterial toxins (e.g., botulinum toxin), mycotoxins (e.g., aflatoxin, ochratoxin), pesticides, heavy metals, and microplastics, pose significant health and economic risks. Emerging evidence highlights that chronic exposure to such xenobiotics disrupts gut microbiota structure and function, adversely affecting host health. While traditional physicochemical detoxification methods exist, they often require impractical conditions. Biological detoxification via probiotics and their metabolites (postbiotics) has gained attention as a practical and cost-effective alternative. Numerous studies concur that probiotics can bind, biotransform, or sequester xenobiotics, thereby mitigating toxicity and restoring microbiota balance. However, variations in strain efficacy, binding mechanisms, and in vivo performance indicate areas needing further exploration. This review critically synthesizes current knowledge on probiotic-mediated detoxification mechanisms, their interaction with xenobiotics and the gut microbiome, and host responses, highlighting consensus, discrepancies, and gaps to inform future research and applications.

PMID:40512444 | DOI:10.1007/s12602-025-10615-1

Sci Total Environ. 2025 Aug 10;989:179865. doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.179865. Epub 2025 Jun 12.

ABSTRACT

The use of sewage effluent in agriculture introduces a variety of emerging contaminants-including nanomaterials, surfactants, cosmetic products, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), flame retardants (FRs), antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), personal care products (PCCPs), antibiotics, pesticides, and micro(nano)plastics (MNPs)-into agroecosystems, posing significant risks to crop safety and human health. This review assesses the phytotoxicity of these pollutants on vegetable crops, emphasizing their detrimental effects on plant physiology, nutritional quality, and long-term soil health. We explore multifaceted mechanisms driving contaminant uptake and bioaccumulation, such as direct cellular translocation, endocytosis, rhizosphere interactions, molecular mimicry of transporters etc. To address these challenges, we have also proposed integrated remediation strategies and cross-cutting techniques, including bioaugmentation with tailored microbial consortia, advanced oxidation processes, phytoremediation CRISPR-engineered microbes for targeted degradation etc. By synthesizing physiological, molecular, and ecological insights, this work provides a roadmap for mitigating contamination risks, enhancing food safety, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in sewage-impacted systems.

PMID:40513449 | DOI:10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.179865

Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2025 Jun 12. doi: 10.1007/s11356-025-36617-8. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The grey water footprint (WF_grey), defined as the volume of freshwater required to dilute pollutants below ambient water quality standards, has gained increasing relevance as a qualitative indicator of wastewater impact on receiving water bodies (RWB). This study evaluates the WF_grey using real data from a municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) and its associated RWB over an eight-year period (2016-2023). A wide range of pollutants were considered, including organic compounds, solids, nutrients, and heavy metals. The analysis considered three scenarios: (a) untreated wastewater discharge, (b) treated effluent discharge, and (c) treated wastewater reuse for agricultural purposes. Results indicate that the WWTP significantly reduces pollutant loads, with scenario (b) showing an average 8-fold decrease in WF_grey compared to scenario (a). Ammonium (in scenario (a)) and phosphorus (in scenario (b)) emerged as the primary contributors to WF_grey, highlighting the limited phosphorus removal due to the absence of dedicated chemical or biological treatments. Lead was found to be the most impactful heavy metal in several instances, underlining the importance of monitoring low-concentrated contaminants. Ammonium and total nitrogen showed the highest removal efficiency, whereas phosphorus removal was relatively inefficient, reinforcing the need for future plant upgrades. Furthermore, the reuse scenario (c) demonstrated the potential of nutrient-rich treated effluent for irrigation, particularly during dry summer months, offering dual benefits of pollution reduction and resource recovery. Overall, WF_grey proved to be a robust and accessible indicator for evaluating WWTP performance, identifying critical pollutants, guiding plant optimization, and supporting sustainable discharge and reuse strategies. Future developments should expand monitoring to emerging contaminants such as pharmaceuticals, pesticides, microplastics, and additional heavy metals to ensure comprehensive environmental protection.

PMID:40504434 | DOI:10.1007/s11356-025-36617-8

ENVI Members held their first exchange of views with Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi, responsible for Health and Animal Welfare. Besides his responsibilities on health (now under the remit of the EP SANT Committee) and animal welfare, Mr Várhelyi is also tasked with proposing actions to reduce food waste and enforcing food safety standards, including through stronger controls on imported products. The Commission will also present a proposal in Q4 2025 to accelerate access to biopesticides, in line with its commitment to increase the availability of alternatives to chemical pesticides. Members were expected to raised topics such as ENVI's recent request for an own-initiative report on biological control agents, the welfare of dogs and cats, and the ongoing interinstitutional negotiations on the NGTs proposal.

J Adv Res. 2025 Jun 5:S2090-1232(25)00392-3. doi: 10.1016/j.jare.2025.06.006. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Lung cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with environmental factors playing critical roles in its development and progression. Respirable and food-borne contaminants are major contributors to lung cancer onset, influencing various physiological pathways that lead to lung injury and tumor formation.

AIM OF REVIEW: This review aims to examine the effects of common environmental pollutants on lung cancer development, highlighting the role of specific contaminants, such as PM2.5 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 µm) and nitrogen oxides, and warning people to pay more attention to environmental pollutants.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW: Environmental pollutants play a significant role in increasing the susceptibility to lung cancer by triggering various biological mechanisms that lead to lung injury and tumorigenesis. Excessive PM2.5 exposure contributes to the overall burden of lung cancer via Wnt/β-catenin, Reactive oxygen species-DNA methyltransferases (ROS-DNMT), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (PKB/Akt), Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) signalling pathways. The primary mechanisms by which NO contributes to the occurrence and development of pulmonary neoplasm revolve around the production and regulation of ROS. Occupational exposure and ecosystem pollution to hazardous substances, including microplastics, pesticides, asbestos, cadmium, and nickel, are the well-established risk factors for the development of lung cancer via DNA damage, oxidative stress, and inflammation pathways. This review emphasizes the importance of effective prevention strategies for lung cancer by reducing environmental pollution levels.

PMID:40482965 | DOI:10.1016/j.jare.2025.06.006

Anal Chim Acta. 2025 Aug 22;1364:344216. doi: 10.1016/j.aca.2025.344216. Epub 2025 May 19.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The detection of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in food is extremely important for ensuring safe food consumption however most analytical methods focus on only a small group of known analytes. The goal of this study was to develop and validate a new method for analysis of 74 PFAS ranging across 15 different groups including legacy PFAS, short-chain alternatives, precursors and breakdown products in beef, chicken, pork, catfish and eggs.

RESULTS: The method was based on "quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, safe, efficient, and robust" (QuEChERSER) mega-method and LC-MS/MS analysis. Validation was performed at, above and below maximum levels set by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in beef, chicken, pork, catfish, liquid egg, and powdered egg samples. Acceptable recoveries were obtained for 72 %-93 % of analytes using reagent only calibration curves across all matrices and concentrations tested. This increased to 84 %-97 % when using matrix matched calibration curves. Method performance was comparable (or better than) US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) methods. Further validation of the method with NIST standard reference materials (SRMs) 1946 and 1947 resulted in accuracies of 71 %-112 %. The validated method was applied to test catfish samples, and low levels of PFAS (0.020-2.24 ng/g wet weight) were measured in both farm raised and wild caught fish.

SIGNIFICANCE: These results demonstrate the ability of this method to accurately measure a broad range of PFAS analytes in complex food matrices providing broad applicability and versatility to end users. To our knowledge, this is the largest current targeted method for analysis of PFAS in foods.

PMID:40480692 | DOI:10.1016/j.aca.2025.344216