Metabolism of PBDEs by Human Liver Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Heather M. Stapleton, Shannon M. Kelly, Ruoting Pei, Robert J. Letcher, Claudia Gunsch
Primary Institution: Duke University
Hypothesis
Can PBDEs be metabolized by human liver cells in vitro and what types of metabolites are formed?
Conclusion
Human liver cells can metabolize some PBDE congeners, particularly BDE-99, producing metabolites that may be more toxic than the original compounds.
Supporting Evidence
- BDE-99 was metabolized to several oxidative metabolites, while BDE-209 showed no significant metabolism.
- Gene expression analysis indicated up-regulation of enzymes involved in PBDE metabolism.
- Metabolites formed from BDE-99 may have greater toxicity than the parent compound.
Takeaway
This study found that human liver cells can break down certain flame-retardant chemicals, which might be harmful to health.
Methodology
Hepatocytes from three donors were exposed to BDE-99 and BDE-209, and gene expression analysis was conducted to assess enzyme induction.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the limited number of donor samples and the specific demographics of the donors.
Limitations
The study did not explore the long-term effects of PBDE metabolism or the impact of lower exposure levels.
Participant Demographics
Three donors: two cryopreserved (one male, one female) and one fresh male, aged 38 to 61, all Caucasian.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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