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Background: Oxidative stress mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a common denominator in arsenic toxicity. Arsenic stress in soil affects the water absorption, decrease stomatal conductance, reduction in osmotic, and leaf water potential, which restrict water uptake and osmotic stress in plants. Arsenic-induced osmotic stress triggers the overproduction of ROS, which causes a number of germination, physiological, biochemical, and antioxidant alterations. Antioxidants with potential to reduce ROS levels ameliorate the arsenic-induced lesions. Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) increase the total soluble sugars and proline, which scavenging OH radicals thereby prevent the oxidative damages cause by ROS. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the potential role of Arsenic resistant PGPR in growth of maize by mitigating arsenic stress. Methodology: Arsenic tolerant PGPR strain MD3 (Pseudochrobactrum asaccharolyticum) was used to dismiss the 'As' induced oxidative stress in maize grown at concentrations of 50 and 100 mg/kg. Previously isolated arsenic tolerant bacterial strain MD3 "Pseudochrobactrum asaccharolyticum was used for this experiment. Further, growth promoting potential of MD3 was done by germination and physio-biochemical analysis of maize seeds. Experimental units were arranged in Completely Randomized Design (CRD). A total of 6 sets of treatments viz., control, arsenic treated (50 & 100 mg/kg), bacterial inoculated (MD3), and arsenic stress plus bacterial inoculated with three replicates were used for Petri plates and pot experiments. After treating with this MD3 strain, seeds of corn were grown in pots filled with or without 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg sodium arsenate. Results: The plants under arsenic stress (100 mg/kg) decreased the osmotic potential (0.8 MPa) as compared to control indicated the osmotic stress, which caused the reduction in growth, physiological parameters, proline accumulation, alteration in antioxidant enzymes (Superoxide dismutase-SOD, catalase-CAT, peroxidase-POD), increased MDA content, and H2O2 in maize plants. As-tolerant Pseudochrobactrum asaccharolyticum improved the plant growth by reducing the oxidation stress and antioxidant enzymes by proline accumulation. PCA analysis revealed that all six treatments scattered differently across the PC1 and PC2, having 85.51% and 9.72% data variance, respectively. This indicating the efficiency of As-tolerant strains. The heatmap supported the As-tolerant strains were positively correlated with growth parameters and physiological activities of the maize plants. Conclusion: This study concluded that Pseudochrobactrum asaccharolyticum reduced the 'As' toxicity in maize plant through the augmentation of the antioxidant defense system. Thus, MD3 (Pseudochrobactrum asaccharolyticum) strain can be considered as bio-fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic (As) toxicity is a serious hazard to agricultural land due to growing industrialization, which has a negative effect on wheat crop yields. To address this issue, using seaweed extract and Azospirillum brasilense has emerged as an effective strategy for improving yield under stress conditions. However, the combined application of A. brasilense and seaweed extract in wheat crops under As toxicity has not been fully explored. The effectiveness of combining A. brasilense and seaweed extract in reducing As toxicity in wheat production was examined in this study through a 2-year pot experiment with nine treatments. These treatments included a control with no additives and two As concentrations (50 and 70 μM). At 50 and 70 μM, As was tested alone, with seaweed extract, with A. brasilense, and both. Significant results were achieved in reducing As toxicity in wheat crops. Arsenic at 70 μM proved more harmful than at 50 μM. The application of A. brasilense and seaweed extract was more effective in improving crop growth rates, chlorophyll levels, and stomatal conductance. The combined application notably decreased As concentration in wheat plants. It was concluded that applying A. brasilense and seaweed extract not only improves wheat growth but can also improve soil parameters under As toxicity conditions by increasing organic matter contents, boosting nutrient availability, and increasing the production of antioxidant enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic (As) contamination of agricultural soils poses a serious threat to crop productivity and food safety. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) have emerged as a potential amendment for mitigating the adverse effects of As stress in plants. Soybean crop is mostly grown on marginalized land and is known for high accumulation of As in roots than others tissue. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of ZnONPs in ameliorating arsenic toxicity in soybean. Our results demonstrated that ZnOB significantly improved the growth performance of soybean plants exposed to arsenic. This improvement was accompanied by a decrease (55%) in As accumulation and an increase in photosynthetic efficiency. ZnOB also modulated hormonal balance, with a significant increase in auxin (149%), abscisic acid (118%), gibberellin (160%) and jasmonic acid content (92%) under As(V) stress assuring that ZnONPs may enhance root growth and development by regulating hormonal signaling. We then conducted a transcriptomic analysis to understand further the molecular mechanisms underlying the NPs-induced As(V) tolerance. This analysis identified genes differentially expressed in response to ZnONPs supplementation, including those involved in auxin, abscisic acid, gibberellin, and jasmonic acid biosynthesis and signaling pathways. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis identified 37 potential hub genes encoding stress responders, transporters, and signal transducers across six modules potentially facilitated the efflux of arsenic from cells, reducing its toxicity. Our study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms associated with metalloid tolerance in soybean and offers new avenues for improving As tolerance in contaminated soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic (As) is one of the most important water pollutant of global concern due to its extreme hazard. In the present study, B. subtilis synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) were used for mitigation of harmful metalloid As from the aqueous solution. Initially, the arsenic removal efficiency was tested in a batch culture experiment across various concentrations (5, 10 and 15 ppm) of B. subtilis synthesized Fe3O4 NPs at different pH, time interval and agitation speed. Optimal removal efficiency of As by using B. subtilis synthesized Fe3O4 NPs was observed at pH 7, after 80 min, and with agitation at 200 rpm. Additionally, hydroponic culture experiment was designed to assess B. subtilis synthesized Fe3O4 NPs efficiency in removal of As from As-contaminated water used to irrigate rice plants. Results revealed that B. subtilis synthesized Fe3O4 NPs effectively removed As from the contiminated water and reduced its uptake by the different parts of rice plants (root, shoot and leaf). Furthermore, these B. subtilis synthesized Fe3O4 NPs also reduced the bioaccumulation and enhanced plant tolerance to As, suggesting their potential in mitigating heavy metal toxicity, especially As and promoting plant growth. Thus, this study proposes B. subtilis synthesized Fe3O4 NPs as nano-adsorbents in reducing arsenic toxicity in rice plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The on‐going anthropogenic degradation of freshwater habitats has drastically altered the environmental supply of both nutrients and common pollutants. Most organisms living in these altered habitats experience interactive effects of various stressors that can initiate adjustments at multiple levels impacting their fitness. Hence, studies measuring response to a single environmental parameter fail to capture the complexities of the status quo. We tested both the individual and the interactive effect of arsenic (As) exposure, food quantity, and dietary phosphorus (P)‐supply on six life‐history traits (Juvenile Growth Rate; Adult Growth Rate; Age and Size at Maturity, Lifespan, and Fecundity) as surrogates for organismal fitness in the keystone aquatic grazer Daphnia pulex. We also tested the effect of food quantity and P‐supply on somatic As accumulation in Daphnia. Our results indicated an influence of P‐supply on neonatal growth and an influence of As and food quantity on growth and maintenance later in life. Maturation was strongly influenced by all three variables, with no reproduction observed in the presence of two or more environmental stressors. We found a strong interaction between As and dietary P, with increased P‐supply intensifing the toxicity effect of As. No such effects were seen between As and food quantity, indicating a differential role of quantity versus quality on As toxicity. We found a nominal effect of diet on somatic As accumulation. The results from the present study emphasize the importance of considering such interactions between co‐occurring environmental stressors and the dietary status of organisms, to better predict and manage impacts and risks associated with common environmental toxicants in highly vulnerable ecosystems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1807–1819. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an element with metalloid properties, arsenic is pervasively present in the environment and is recognized as a potent carcinogen. Consequently, the issue of human arsenic exposure has become a significant concern within the global public health sector. Numerous studies have indicated that arsenic induces cellular senescence through various mechanisms, including triggering epigenetic alterations, inducing the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP), promoting telomere shortening, and causing mitochondrial dysfunction. This article collates and summarizes the latest research advancements on the involvement of cellular senescence in arsenic toxicity and explores the mechanisms of arsenic-induced toxicity. This study aims to provide new perspectives and directions for future research on arsenic toxicity and the development of prevention and treatment strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the curative effects of Morin, a flavonoid, against arsenic toxicity in 3T3 embryonic fibroblast cells and its effect on the molecular mechanisms of cells. The cytotoxicity and viability of the cells were measured by MTT and LDH tests. Arsenic (0.74 μM) was used to trigger toxicity and Morin (50 μM) was used for treatment. The levels of oxidative stress biomarkers and the activities of antioxidant enzymes were measured by spectrophotometric method, and inflammatory markers were measured by ELISA method. While mRNA expression levels of Bax, Bcl-2 levels, and Caspase-3 activity were measured by qRT-PCR technique, TUNEL staining was performed to detect DNA breaks and DAPI staining to visualize nuclear changes. Protein structures were retrieved from the protein data bank. OpenBabel and Autodock programs were used for the molecular docking study. Morin rescued the 3T3 embryonic fibroblast cells exposed to arsenic. However, Arsenic decreased the activities of antioxidant enzymes in cells and significantly increased oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Morin treatment reduced oxidative damage and TNF-α and IL-1β levels. Arsenic-induced Caspase-3 mRNA expression level and Bax protein mRNA expression level were significantly increased, while Bcl-2 mRNA expression level was significantly decreased. While Caspase-3 mRNA expression level and Bax protein mRNA expression level decreased with morin treatment, Bcl-2 mRNA expression level increased significantly. Molecular docking study results showed good binding affinity of morin in SOD, GSH-Px, Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3, TNF-α, and IL-1β structures. Morin showed antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects against Arsenic-induced cellular toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Grain quality is an important index of rice production, particularly when plants are grown under stress. Arsenic (As) contamination in paddy fields severely affects rice grain yield and quality. Here, the effects of As and combinations of As(III)-oxidizing bacteria (Pseudomonas stutzeri 4.25, 4.27, and 4.44) and plant growth-promoting bacteria (Delftia acidovorans KKU2500-12 and Cupriavidus taiwanensis KKU2500-3) on enzymes related to starch accumulation in grains and the grain quality of Khao Dawk Mali 105 rice cultivated in As-contaminated soil under greenhouse conditions were investigated. Results: Arsenic affected the activities of starch biosynthesis-related enzymes, and decreases of up to 76.27%, 71.53%, 49.74%, 73.39%, and 47.46% in AGPase, SSS, GBSS, SBE, and SDBE activities, respectively, and 9.42–61.07% in starch accumulation in grains were detected after growth in As-contaminated soil. However, the KKU2500-3/4.25 and KKU2500-3/4.44 combinations yielded the greatest enzyme activities in grains, and compared with the results observed in uninoculated seedlings, increases in starch accumulation of up to 51.16% and 23.81% were found in the inoculated seedlings after growth in medium- and high-As-contaminated soils, at 10–17 and 10–24 days after anthesis, respectively. The bacteria increased the 2-AP content in rice under As stress, possibly via the induction of proline, a 2-AP substrate. Bacterium-inoculated rice had significantly greater 2-AP levels than uninoculated rice, and 2.16–9.93% and 26.57–42.04% increases were detected in rice plants grown in medium- and high-As-contaminated soils, respectively. Conclusions: Arsenic toxicity can be mitigated in rice growing under greenhouse conditions by maintaining starch biosynthesis, accumulating amylose, and increasing 2-AP content. The effectiveness of these bacteria should be validated in paddy fields; hence, safe rice grains with a good starch content and aroma could be produced. Highlights: As(III) oxidation and PGPB improved the quality of the KDML 105 rice grains. Bacteria maintained starch biosynthesis-related enzyme activity in As-contaminated soils. Bacteria increased starch accumulation and the 2-AP aromatic content in rice grains. Bacteria improved the crop yield and grain quality of As-stressed rice plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study evaluated the repercussions of magnetopriming on the root system architecture of soybean plants subjected to arsenic toxicity using synchrotron radiation source based micro-computed tomography (SR-µCT). This will be used evey where as abbreviation for the technique for threedimensional imaging. Seeds of soybean were exposed to the static magnetic field (SMF) of strength (200 mT) for 1h prior to sowing. Magnetoprimed and nonprimed seeds were grown for 1 month in a soil-sand mixture containing four different levels of sodium arsenate (0, 5, 10, and 50 mg As kg-1 soil). The results showed that arsenic adversely affects the root growth in non-primed plants by reducing their root length, root biomass, root hair, size and number of root nodules, where the damaging effect of As was observed maximum at higher concentrations (10 and 50 mg As kg-1 soil). However, a significant improvement in root morphology was detected in magnetoprimed plants where SMF pretreatment enhanced the root length, root biomass, pore diameter of cortical cells, root hair formation, lateral roots branching, and size of root nodules and girth of primary roots. Qualitative analysis of x-ray micro-CT images showed that arsenic toxicity damaged the epidermal and cortical layers of the root as well as reduced the pore diameter of the cortical cells. However, the diameter of cortical cells pores in magnetoprimed plants was observed higher as compared to plants emerged from non-primed seeds at all level of As toxicity. Thus, the study suggested that magnetopriming has the potential to attenuate the toxic effect of As and could be employed as a pre-sowing treatment to reduce the phytotoxic effects of metal ions in plants by improving root architecture and root tolerance index. This study is the very first exploration of the potential benefits of magnetopriming in mitigating the toxicity of metals (As) in plant roots utilizing the micro-CT technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic (As) contamination is a major environmental pollutant that adversely affects plant physiological processes and can hinder nutrients and water availability. Such conditions ultimately resulted in stunted growth, low yield, and poor plant health. Using rhizobacteria and composted biochar (ECB) can effectively overcome this problem. Rhizobacteria have the potential to enhance plant growth by promoting nutrient uptake, producing growth hormones, and suppressing diseases. Composted biochar can enhance plant growth by improving aeration, water retention, and nutrient cycling. Its porous structure supports beneficial microorganisms, increasing nutrient uptake and resilience to stressors, ultimately boosting yields while sequestering carbon. Therefore, the current study was conducted to investigate the combined effect of previously isolated Bacillus faecalis (B. faecalis) and ECB as amendments on maize cultivated under different As levels (0, 300, 600 mg As/kg soil). Four treatments (control, 0.5% composted biochar (0.5ECB), B. faecalis, and 0.5ECB + B. faecalis) were applied in four replications following a completely randomized design. Results showed that the 0.5ECB + B. faecalis treatment led to a significant rise in maize plant height (~ 99%), shoot length (~ 55%), root length (~ 82%), shoot fresh (~ 87%), and shoot dry weight (~ 96%), root fresh (~ 97%), and dry weight (~ 91%) over the control under 600As stress. There was a notable increase in maize chlorophyll a (~ 99%), chlorophyll b (~ 81%), total chlorophyll (~ 94%), and shoot N, P, and K concentration compared to control under As stress, also showing the potential of 0.5ECB + B. faecalis treatment. Consequently, the findings suggest that applying 0.5ECB + B. faecalis is a strategy for alleviating As stress in maize plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The health risks (non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk) were calculated in both adults and children, using target hazard quotient (THQ) and carcinogenic risk (CR). The concentrations of Cd, Pb, and Ni were higher than the standard limits but they did not pose any non-carcinogenic health risks in adult and children's consumers (THQ <1). Meanwhile, the risk assessment of iAs indicates THQ > 1 for children in Egypt. Moreover, the THQ value due to Me Hg for adult in Tunisia and for children in Tunisia, Malta, Portugal, Latvia, Cambogia, Peru, South Korea, Romania, Hong Kong, United Arab Emirates, Morocco, and Egypt was higher than 1 value. In addition, the calculated CR values of iAs for the adults and children were within the threshold risk of developing cancer (Between 1.00E–4 to 1.00E–6). Therefore, it is recommended to continuously monitor the concentration of PTEs in canned tuna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From at least the fifteenth to late nineteenth centuries, peasants in the Austrian province of Styria ate up to several hundred milligrams of arsenic trioxide or sulfide daily or weekly for periods up to a number of years. Taking these doses of arsenic was believed to increase muscular power and enhance the beauty and sexual attractiveness of peasant girls. There do not appear to be contemporaneous records of the known consequences of chronic arsenic exposure. The historical records of arsenic eating there are reviewed and appear to be valid. The benefits are subjective judgements by arsenic eaters. The lack of objective reports of the anticipated external and internal clinical and pathological effects of arsenic poisoning depends on a smaller number of clinical accounts and autopsy reports and the general medical literature of those times, so it is weaker, but it is consistent. Why the arsenic eaters did not show the well-known consequences of prolonged exposure to high doses of arsenic is not known. Possible explanations include increases in detoxifying metabolism in the consumers due to induced genomic changes and selection in people and in the gut microbiome, as shown in other populations. Whether these effects would suffice to protect people against their high doses of arsenic has not been explored. Although the nature and mechanisms of arsenic toxicity have been extensively described, much still remains to be discovered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic (As) poisoning has become a global public problem threatening human health. Chelation therapy (CT) is the preferred treatment for arsenic poisoning. Nevertheless, efficient and safe arsenic removal in vivo remains a daunting challenge due to the limitations of chelators, including weak affinity, poor cell membrane penetration, and short half-life. Herein, a mercapto-functionalized and size-tunable hierarchical porous Zr-MOF (UiO-66-TC-SH) is developed, which possesses abundant arsenic chemisorption sites, effective cell uptake ability, and long half-life, thereby efficiently removing toxic arsenic in vivo. Moreover, the strong binding affinity of UiO-66-TC-SH for arsenic reduces systemic toxicity caused by off-target effects. In animal trials, UiO-66-TC-SH decreases the blood arsenic levels of acute arsenic poisoning mice to a normal value within 48 h, and the efficacy is superior to clinical drugs 2,3-dimercaptopropanesulfonic acid sodium salt (DMPS). Meanwhile, UiO-66-TC-SH also significantly mitigates the arsenic accumulation in the metabolic organs of chronic arsenic poisoning mice. Surprisingly, UiO-66-TC-SH also accelerates the metabolism of arsenic in organs of tumor-bearing mice and alleviates the side effects of arsenic drugs antitumor therapy. Arsenic (As) contamination has become a global problem threatening public health. The present clinical chelation therapy (CT) still has some limitations, including the weak affinity, poor cell membrane permeability and short half-life of hydrophilic chelators. Herein, a metal−organic framework (MOF)-based multieffective arsenic removal strategy in vivo is proposed for the first time. Mercapto-functionalized and size-tunable hierarchical porous Zr-MOF nanoantidote (denoted as UiO-66-TC-SH) is accordingly designed and synthesized. After injection, UiO-66-TC-SH can form Zr− O −As bonds and As− S bonds with arsenic, thus enhancing arsenic adsorption capacity, cycling stability and systemic safety simultaneously. The acute arsenic poisoning model results indicate that UiO-66-TC-SH shows superior efficacy to the clinical drug sodium dimercaptopropanesulfonate (DMPS). More meaningfully, we find that UiO-66-TC-SH also accelerates the metabolism of arsenic in organs of tumor-bearing mice and alleviates side effects of arsenic drugs anti-tumor therapy. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current work aims to prevent the adverse effects of arsenic poisoning in animal models by using a medicinal plant extract. The animals (Charles Foster rats) were exposed to Sodium arsenite at a dose of 8 mg per kg body weight for 90 days in order to develop an arsenic model. Leaf extract of Calendula officinalis at a dose of 200 mg per kg body weight was administered to these arsenic treated rats for 60 days to study the preventive effects of this plant extract. The study found that arsenic poisoning had an adverse effect on rats at the haematological, biochemical, and histopathological levels, but there was considerable normalization in the animal at all of these levels after the leaf extract administration of Calendula officinalis. As a result, it has ameliorative qualities against arsenic-induced toxicity and may be used therapeutically as a preventative medication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic poisoning in groundwater is the most common environmental pollutant, which is leading to serious pollution worldwide. Chronic arsenic exposure from drinking water to humans causes major public health-related issues. The present study was conducted to investigate the antidote effects of Foeniculum vulgare (Fennel) against arsenic-induced hepatotoxicity and testicular toxicity in Charles Foster rats. In the present study, twenty-four male Charles Foster rats (120±5gm) were divided into four Groups (n=6), where control Group-I received a normal diet and water; Group - II and Group - III received sodium arsenite (8 mg per kg body weight per day) for 90 days. Group III was left with a normal diet and water for the next 60 days for auto-recovery. The group IV rats were administered Foeniculum vulgare (Funnel) hydroxyl ethanolic seed extract at a dose of 150 mg per kg body weight for 60 days in a 90-day pre)treated sodium arsenite group (8 mg per kg body weight). After complete dose duration, all the treated animals were sacrificed the same day for haematological, biochemical, hormonal, and histopathological studies. In the arsenic treated rats, there were significant (p<0.001) changes in serum levels of SGPT, SGOT, urea, uric acid and creatinine as well as in haematological parameters. And there was also decease in the sperm count and sperm motility, accompanied by an increased incidence of sperm abnormalities and hormonal imbalances leading to infertility. In contrast, after the administration of F. vulgare seeds hydroxy-ethanolic extract to arsenic-treated rats, significant (p<0.001) improvements were observed in hepatic and renal parameters as well as haematological parameters. In the arsenic-intoxicant rat, after administration of F. vulgare seeds hydroxyl ethanolic extract, there was a significant (p<001) reduction in the arsenic concentration in blood, liver, and kidney tissues as well as serum LPO. The histopathological study also showed the F. vulgare seeds hydroxy-ethanolic extract significantly restored the cellular integrity of testicular cells, leading to their normal functioning against arsenic-induced toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of arsenic (As) metalloid in groundwater poses serious threat to human and animal’s health. Approx. 300 million people of about 105 countries in the world are affected due to arsenite poisoning. Except mitigation there is no such mode by which the population can be prevented from being exposed to arsenic. Elaeocarpus sphaericus (E. sphaericus) is widely used in the folk medicine system for the treatment of various diseases. Hence, present study aimed to investigate the Bio-remedial Impact of ESSE against As-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Charles foster rats. Male twenty-four rats (weighing 160 ± 20 g) were randomly assigned into two groups, where Group-I (n=6) rats were used as control. Group-II (n=18) rats were treated with sodium arsenite at 8 mg/Kg body weight for 90 days daily and then further divided into three sub-groups. Sub-Group I (n=6); rats were sacrificed and data were collected, Sub-Group II (n=6); rats were left for 60 days for auto recovery (as As-pre-treated group), and Sub-Group II (n=6); rats were administrated with E. sphaericus at 20mg/kg body weight for 60 days. After the completion of entire experimental dose all the control and treatment group were sacrificed to evaluate the various parameters. As-Induced rats had Significant (p<0.0001) alteration in haematological parameters. As-Induced serum levels of urea, uric acid, creatinine and albumin had significant (p<0.0001) alteration. Level of MDA and BUN were significantly (p<0001) increased. However, ESSE administration significantly reduced the adverse effect related to test of nephrological functions, MDA level significantly (p<0.0001) reduced. Dose dependent ESSE administration combat As)Induced toxicity and significantly (P<0.0001) normalise the level of haematological parameters. Hence, the study concluded that E. sphaericus seed might be used as a nutritional supplement to combat the arsenic led toxicity among the exposed population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, 300 million people worldwide are exposed to groundwater arsenic poisoning in the recent time, while an estimated 10 million population are exposed to arsenic poisoning in Bihar (India). The arsenic contamination in ground water has caused serious health hazards in the exposed population. The typical symptoms of arsenicosis are observed in the exposed population mostly skin manifestations such as hyperkeratosis, melanosis, loss of appetite, neuro-behavioral disorders etc. Hence, the present study aims to develop novel drug discovery against arsenic induced toxicity in rat models. In the present study treatment groups received sodium arsenite orally at the dose of 8 mg/kg body weight daily for 90 days followed by administration of Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) seed extract at the dose of 500 mg/ kg body weight daily by gavage method for 60 days. Their biochemical levels like liver and kidney function tests were assayed and were found with elevated levels. Furthermore, their free radical assessment such as lipid peroxidation levels were assayed which was also found to be many folds higher. Furthermore, the arsenic concentration in the tissue of liver and kidney was significantly very high. But, after the administration of ethanolic seed extract of Ocimum sanctum, there was significant restoration in the biochemical and lipid peroxidation levels. Moreover, there was also reduction in the arsenic content in the liver and kidney tissues of rats. The phytoremedial effect of this novel plant (Ocimum sanctum) denotes that it possesses antidote effect against arsenic induced toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased levels of the non-essential hazardous metalloid arsenic (As) in rice grains pose a threat to human health and the sustainability of the rice industry. In several counties, the average As contamination in polished rice has been detected to range from 0.002 to 0.39 mg/kg, which is above the safe limit of 1 mg/kg as recommended by the World Health Organisation. Beyond this limit, the digestive tract, circulatory system, skin, liver, kidney, nervous system and heart can be affected. Humans can develop cancer from consuming or inhaling As. In addition, long-term exposure to drinking water contaminated with arsenic has also been linked to a dose-response relationship with an increased risk of hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Rice has been shown to be an indirect source of arsenic accumulation in human bodies. Under flooded paddy soil, trivalent arsenate (AsIII) occupies 87-94% of the total As, while under non-flooded soil, pentavalent arsenate (AsV) predominates (73-96% of the total As). This review aims to provide a thorough and interdisciplinary understanding of the behaviour of As in the paddy soil and transportation to rice grain and further investigate efficient ways to limit arsenic contamination. Supplementation of soil with specific mineral nutrients such as iron (Fe), sulphur (S) and silicon (Si) can significantly decrease the arsenic accumulation in rice grain by minimising its uptake and translocation. The hydrogen bonding potentials of uronic acids, proteins and amino sugars on the extracellular surface of soil microorganisms facilitate the detoxification of arsenic species. Further, rice is absorbed less when exposed to aerobic water management practices than anaerobic ones since it reduces the build-up of As in rice, and the solution is immobilised as in the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic catastrophe has caused serious health hazards to the exposed population. An estimated 10 million people are exposed to arsenic poisoning through groundwater. The arsenic contamination through ground water has caused health diseases such as skin manifestations, loss of appetite, nausea, bowel disorders, neurological disorders etc. Therefore, there is need for search for proper therapeutic drug against arsenic induced toxicity in rats. In the present study, arsenic induced toxic model was developed by treating Charles Foster rats (n=18) with sodium arsenite orally at the dose of 8 mg/kg body weight daily for 60 days followed by administration of Bacopa moneri (Brahmi) leaf extract at the dose of 30mg/kg body weight daily by gavage method for 60 days. After the completion of the experiment, all the animals were sacrificed and their blood samples were collected along with their vital tissues. Following parameters were assayed such as haematological assay, biochemical assay and histopathological evaluation in the present study. The haematological study comprised of RBC counts, WBC counts, platelets counts and heamoglobin percentage. For biochemical evaluation, the liver function test and the kidney function test parameters along with free radical assay were carried out. The histopathological study also showed very high degree of degeneration in the hepatocytes and the nephrocytes in the vital organ's liver and kidney. But, after the administration of ethanolic leaf extract of Bacopa moneri, there was marked restoration in the studied parameters. The haematological parameters, the biochemical parameters as well as the histopathological study showed very significant outcomes. Therefore, the present studied medicinal plant Bacopa moneri possesses antidote effect against arsenic induced toxicity in Charles Foster rats which can be used as therapeutic drug in the future after clinical approval. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic contamination is a serious issue throughout the world and is substantial risk factor in most of the countries including India. Chronic arsenic exposure from drinking water to humans is causing major public health related issues. The present study aims to investigate the ameliorative effect of Citrullus lanatus (Watermelon) seeds against arsenic induced reproductive function and testicular toxicity in Charles Foster rats. In the present study, twenty-four male Charles Foster rats (120±5gm). The study group includes group - I (n=6) as control, and group - II (n=18) treated with sodium arsenite (8 mg per Kg body weight per day) for 90 days. The group - II was furthermore divided into three sub-groups, Group - II-a, Group - II-b and Group - II-c. The group - II-a were sacrificed to see the effect of arsenic toxicity effect after arsenic exposure. Group - II-b was left with normal food and water for next 60 days to observe auto recovery. The group - II-c rats were administered with Citrullus lanatus (Watermelon) hydroxyl ethanolic seeds extract at the dose of 400 mg per Kg body weight per day for 60 days for 90 days upon pre-treated sodium arsenite treated group (8 mg per kg body weight). After completion of the experiment, all the treated group of animals were sacrificed for biochemical, hormonal assay, histopathological, testicular and reproductive functions study. In the arsenic treated rats' group, there was significant (p<0.001) changes in serum levels of SGPT, SGOT, urea, uric acid and creatinine as well as in haematological parameters. There was decrease in the sperm counts and sperm motility accompanied by an increased incidence of sperm abnormalities and hormonal imbalance denotes infertility condition. In contrast, after the administration with C.lanatus (Watermelon) seeds hydroxy-ethanolic extract upon arsenic treated rats group, there was significant (p<0.001) improvement observed in the reproductive, hepatic and renal parameters. In the arsenic intoxicant rats' group, after administration with C. lanatus (Watermelon) seeds hydroxyl ethanolic extract, there was significant (p<001) reduction in the arsenic concentration in blood, liver, and kidney tissues as well as serum lipid peroxidation. The histopathological study also showed the C. lanatus (Watermelon) seeds hydroxy ethanolic extract significantly restored the cellular integrity of testicular cells leading to normal functioning of it against arsenic induced toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundwater contamination in India exposes an estimated 70 million people to arsenic. Over 10 million people in the state of Bihar (India) are at risk of arsenic poisoning. As reported 27 districts of the state's thirty-eight districts are under a state of catastrophe. Symptoms noticed by those who have been exposed to the arsenic caused disease are-lack of appetite, neurobehavioral problems, hyperkeratosis, and melanosis on the skin. So, this study's primary objective is to find novel approaches to treat arsenic poisoning in rats using the Charles Foster model. Following permission from the Institutional Animal Ethics Committee, the animals were divided into three groups: one group served as a control, the second group received arsenic treatment, and the third group received Ganoderma lucidum extract after arsenic treatment. For the arsenic group, the rats were given 8 mg/kg body weight of sodium arsenite orally every day for 90 days, and then for 60 days, they were given 80 mg/Kg body weight of Ganoderma lucidum extract via gavage. Their biochemical values, including those of the liver and kidneys, were found to be increased. In addition, their levels of free radicals, including lipid peroxidation, were measured and found to be substantially higher. In addition, the levels of arsenic in the kidney and liver tissue were very high. However, biochemical and lipid peroxidation levels were significantly restored after administration of Ganoderma lucidum ethanolic extract. Arsenic levels in rat liver and kidney tissues were also found to be reduced. Ganoderma lucidum has a therapeutic impact against arsenicinduced toxicity, according to the present research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic poisoning of groundwater is one of the most critical environmental hazards on Earth. Therefore, the practical and proper treatment of arsenic in water requires more attention to ensure safe drinking water. The World Health Organization (WHO) sets guidelines for 10 μg/L of arsenic in drinking water, and direct long-term exposure to arsenic in drinking water beyond this value causes severe health hazards to individuals. Numerous studies have confirmed the adverse effects of arsenic after long-term consumption of arsenic-contaminated water. Here, technologies for the remediation of arsenic from water are highlighted for the purpose of understanding the need for a single-point solution for the treatment of As(III)-contaminated water. As(III) species are neutral at neutral pH; the solution requires transformation technology for its complete removal. In this critical review, emphasis was placed on single-step technologies with multiple functions to remediate arsenic from water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic, existing in various chemical forms such as arsenate (As(V)) and arsenite (As(III)), demands serious attention in water and environmental contexts due to its significant health risks. It is classified as "carcinogenic to humans" by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and is listed by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the top 10 chemicals posing major public health concerns. This widespread contamination results in millions of people globally being exposed to dangerous levels of arsenic, making it a top priority for the WHO. Chronic arsenic toxicity, known as arsenicosis, presents with specific skin lesions like pigmentation and keratosis, along with systemic manifestations including chronic lung diseases, liver issues, vascular problems, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and cancer, often leading to fatal outcomes. Therefore, it is crucial to explore novel, cost-effective, and reliable methods with rapid response and improved sensitivities (detection limits). Most of the traditional detection techniques often face limitations in terms of complexity, cost, and the need for sophisticated equipment requiring skilled analysts and procedures, which thereby impedes their practical use, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Colorimetric methods leverage colour changes which are observable and quantifiable using simple instrumentation or even visual inspection. This review explores the colorimetric techniques designed to detect arsenite and arsenate in water. It covers recent developments in colorimetric techniques, and advancements in the role of nanomaterials in colorimetric arsenic detection, followed by discussion on current challenges and future prospects. The review emphasizes efforts to improve sensitivity, selectivity, cost, and portability, as well as the role of advanced materials/nanomaterials to boost the performance of colorimetric assays/sensors towards combatting this pervasive global health concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic is a valuable component in tumor treatment and traditional Chinese medicine and has seen widespread use in processing, manufacturing, and agriculture. Although rare, arsenic poisoning can occur in forensic practice. Elusive pathological changes, as well as obscure clinical signs, may cause arsenic poisoning to go unrecognized. Here, we report four cases of fatal acute arsenic poisoning, with careful observation of pathological changes and collection of postmortem specimens for arsenic concentration analysis. Additionally, we reviewed six cases of fatal arsenic poisoning in the past 20 years. In the present study, microvesicular steatosis in the peripheral areas of the hepatic lobules and acute splenitis were observed, which are rare findings in acute arsenic poisoning. This study summarizes the histopathological features of arsenic poisoning and presents data on arsenic distribution. Arsenic concentrations in the liver and kidneys can increase the reliability of identifying arsenic poisoning. Furthermore, in traditional Chinese medicine-related deaths, arsenic poisoning needs more attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic ranked 20th in abundance on the earth's crust, poses a threat to all living organisms, and has affected over 30 million people worldwide. While bacteria play a crucial role in detoxifying and modifying arsenic to a harmless form, the complex nature of the biological methods involved in the process makes it difficult to comprehend. The present study followed the PRISMA protocols to search PubMed and evaluated eligible studies up to March 20, 2023, and their references to understand the mechanisms and diversity of arsenic resistance in bacteria. The search yielded 1140 studies, of which 196 were included in the systemic review. According to the studies reviewed, most of the arsenic resistant bacteria were isolated from soil, water, and mining tails, and the highest MIC (minimum inhibitory concentration) for arsenate is 900 mM, while for arsenite, it is 180 mM. Exiguobacterium sp. As-9 exhibited the highest amount of MIC for arsenate (700 mM) and arsenite (180 mM) and can remove 99% of arsenic in less than 20 h. The transfer of arsenic in bacterial cell mainly consists of arsenite and arsenate uptake, using glycerol channel G1pF or aquaporin (AQP) and the phosphate transport system respectively. Bioremediation using bacteria to remove or detoxify arsenic toxicity is a cost-effective, and environment friendly method. The potentials of arsenic resistant microorganisms need to be harnessed to mitigate arsenic pollution in contaminated land and water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lysine specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) is a histone demethylase that specifically catalyzes the demethylation of histone H3K4 (H3K4me1/2) and regulates gene expression. In addition, it can mediate the process of autophagy through its demethylase activity. Sestrin2 (SESN2) is a stress‐induced protein and a positive regulator of autophagy. In NaAsO2‐induced mouse fibrotic livers and activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), LSD1 expression is decreased, SESN2 expression is increased, and autophagy levels are also increased. Overexpression of LSD1 and silencing of SESN2 decreased the level of autophagy and attenuated the activation of HSCs induced by NaAsO2. LSD1 promoted SESN2 gene transcription by increasing H3K4me1/2 in the SESN2 promoter region. 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA) and chloroquine were used to inhibit autophagy of HSCs, and the degree of activation was also alleviated. Taken together, LSD1 positively regulates SESN2 by increasing H3K4me1/2 enrichment in the SESN2 promoter region, which in turn increases the level of autophagy and promotes the activation of HSCs. Our results may provide new evidence for the importance of LSD1 in the process of autophagy and activation of HSCs induced by arsenic poisoning. Increasing the expression and activity of LSD1 is expected to be an effective way to reverse the autophagy and activation of HSCs induced by arsenic poisoning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In India, where millions of people use groundwater for drinking, arsenic pollution in groundwater is a major environmental and public health issue. The review begins by analyzing the sources and causes of groundwater arsenic pollution, including natural geological processes and anthropogenic activities like mining and industrial discharge. It emphasizes India's most arsenic‐contaminated regions and the health risks of long‐term exposure. The review's second section focuses on the use of biosensors to find arsenic in groundwater. A potential method is provided by biosensors because of their great sensitivity, selectivity, and quick response. The benefits and drawbacks of several types of biosensors, including optical, electrochemical, and microbiological biosensors, are discussed. The utilization of nanomaterials, biomolecular recognition components, and miniature devices are only a few of the most recent developments in biosensor technology for arsenic detection that are studied. The review's last section discusses methods for bio‐remediating aqueous systems that have been contaminated with arsenic. Various bioremediation techniques are covered in detail, including microbial degradation, phytoremediation, and biosorption. The promise for removing arsenic using native microbes and plant species is highlighted, along with the difficulties of widespread application and long‐term sustainability. Overall, focusing on the detection of arsenic using biosensors and investigating bioremediation techniques, this review offers a thorough grasp of the arsenic poisoning in groundwater in India. In order to combat arsenic contamination and protect the health and wellbeing of the impacted populations in India, it emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary research and collaboration among scientists, engineers, policymakers, and local communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many cases of an unknown disease exhibiting the clinical features of limb gangrene, blisters, ulceration, and exfoliation have been reported in Daping village (DV) in southwestern China. However, the pathogenesis is unknown and has puzzled doctors for many years. A preliminary study on heavy metals and symptoms indicated that arsenic might pose the greatest threat to the health of local residents. Here, to explore the sources of and factors influencing arsenic enrichment in DV, whose residents exhibit signs of arsenic poisoning, the As contents in soil, water, and plants were systematically measured. The results indicated high As contents in plant and soil samples obtained from the area, and the source of As may be linked to the weathering of black shale rock. Ingestion of soil and consumption of plants were the two main As exposure pathways among children and adults, respectively, and children exhibited a higher health risk than adults. We presume and emphasize that when extreme drought events occur, humans might face unusual risks resulting from exposure to toxic elements and the direct consumption of highly polluted water. Our study provides a new perspective and sheds light on the environmental geochemistry and health links of this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of probiotic lactobacilli has been proposed as a strategy to mitigate damage associated with exposure to toxic metals. Their protective effect against cationic metal ions, such as those of mercury or lead, is believed to stem from their chelating and accumulating potential. However, their retention of anionic toxic metalloids, such as inorganic arsenic, is generally low. Through the construction of mutants in phosphate transporter genes (pst) in Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strains, coupled with arsenate [As(V)] uptake and toxicity assays, we determined that the incorporation of As(V), which structurally resembles phosphate, is likely facilitated by phosphate transporters. Surprisingly, inactivation in Lc. paracasei of PhoP, the transcriptional regulator of the two-component system PhoPR, a signal transducer involved in phosphate sensing, led to an increased resistance to arsenite [As(III)]. In comparison to the wild type, the phoP strain exhibited no differences in the ability to retain As(III), and there were no observed changes in the oxidation of As(III) to the less toxic As(V). These results reinforce the idea that specific transport, and not unspecific cell retention, plays a role in As(V) biosorption by lactobacilli, while they reveal an unexpected phenotype for the lack of the pleiotropic regulator PhoP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Arsenic is a well-known toxin which may contaminate household water. It is harmful when ingested over prolonged periods of time. As a result, public health experts recommend that water should be screened and treated to prevent arsenic ingestion. In the United States, the responsibility of testing and treatment of private wells falls on homeowners. Despite recommendations for routine screening, this is rarely done. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of well water use in a Midwestern patient population, how patients and clinicians perceive the risks of arsenic in well water, and whether additional resources on well water testing are desired. These findings will be used to influence tools for clinicians regarding symptom and examination findings of chronic arsenic exposure and potentiate the distribution of informational resources on well water testing. Methods: Surveys were sent via email to all actively practicing primary care clinicians at the Mayo Clinic in the United States Midwest, and all active adult patients at the Mayo Clinic in the same region. Our team analyzed survey data to determine whether both patients and clinicians are aware of the health effects of chronic arsenic toxicity from well water, the need for routine well water testing and whether each group wants more information on the associated risks. Results: Both patients and primary care clinicians worry about arsenic exposure. Patients with well water are concerned about their water safety yet feel uninformed about testing options. Clinicians do not know how prevalent well water use is among their patients, feel uninformed about the chronic risks of arsenic exposure and the physical examination associated with it. Both groups unanimously want more information on testing options. Conclusions: Our findings show a significant reliance on well water use in the American Midwest, and unanimous support for the need for further well water testing information and resources for patients and their clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The health risks that arise from environmental exposures vary widely within and across human populations, and these differences are largely determined by genetic variation and gene-by-environment (gene–environment) interactions. However, risk assessment in laboratory mice typically involves isogenic strains and therefore, does not account for these known genetic effects. In this context, genetically heterogenous cell lines from laboratory mice are promising tools for population-based screening because they provide a way to introduce genetic variation in risk assessment without increasing animal use. Cell lines from genetic reference populations of laboratory mice offer genetic diversity, power for genetic mapping, and potentially, predictive value for in vivo experimentation in genetically matched individuals. To explore this further, we derived a panel of fibroblast lines from a genetic reference population of laboratory mice (the Diversity Outbred, DO). We then used high-content imaging to capture hundreds of cell morphology traits in cells exposed to the oxidative stress-inducing arsenic metabolite monomethylarsonous acid (MMAIII). We employed dose-response modeling to capture latent parameters of response and we then used these parameters to identify several hundred cell morphology quantitative trait loci (cmQTL). Response cmQTL encompass genes with established associations with cellular responses to arsenic exposure, including Abcc4 and Txnrd1, as well as novel gene candidates like Xrcc2. Moreover, baseline trait cmQTL highlight the influence of natural variation on fundamental aspects of nuclear morphology. We show that the natural variants influencing response include both coding and non-coding variation, and that cmQTL haplotypes can be used to predict response in orthogonal cell lines. Our study sheds light on the major molecular initiating events of oxidative stress that are under genetic regulation, including the NRF2-mediated antioxidant response, cellular detoxification pathways, DNA damage repair response, and cell death trajectories. Author summary: Exposure to environmental toxicants leads to adverse health outcomes. Natural genetic variation regulates the likelihood and severity of these outcomes, but studying the underlying genes and pathways in human populations is challenging. Population-based rodent models simulate the genetic variation of the human population offering numerous advantages as experimental genetic models for studying gene–environment interactions and in chemical risk asessment. These include exquisite environmental control and higher power for mapping the genes and pathways that influence sensitivity and resilience to environmental exposures. We leveraged a genetically diverse laboratory mouse population to investigate the genetic regulation of arsenic response. To minimize animal use, cells were derived from each individual animal through a minimally invasive tail biopsy. These cells provide a reusable genetic resource for chemical or drug screening through which predictions of risk can be made and tested in genetically matched laboratory mice. To evaluate the utility of this resource, we used high content imaging to quantify changes in cell morphology following exposure to the arsenic metabolite MMAIII. Using dose-response modeling, we identified the subset of morphological changes that are informative of arsenic response and that exhibit robust interindividual variation. We then used genetic association mapping to identify several hundred loci regulating individual differences in arsenic response. To nominate candidate driver genes, we integrated various lines of evidence from published arsenic studies and molecular data from the same mouse population. Our work demonstrates that genetic variation in the molecular pathways regulating arsenic transport, oxidative stress, and DNA damage contribute to variation in arsenic response. Additionally, we show that this genetic variation predicts cellular response in independent experiments. Our data establish a population-based approach for studying gene–environment interactions using inexpensive and high-throughput cell morphology traits in an experimental system that enables recursive in vitro and in vivo experimentation across genetically matched individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice (Oryza sativa) is the primary crop for nearly half of the world's population. Groundwater in many rice-growing parts of the world often has elevated levels of arsenite and arsenate. At the same time, rice can accumulate up to 20 times more arsenic compared to other staple crops. This places an enormous amount of people at risk of chronic arsenic poisoning. In this study, we investigated whether Raman spectroscopy (RS) could be used to diagnose arsenic toxicity in rice based on biochemical changes that were induced by arsenic accumulation. We modeled arsenite and arsenate stresses in four different rice cultivars grown in hydroponics over a nine-day window. Our results demonstrate that Raman spectra acquired from rice leaves, coupled with partial least squaresdiscriminant analysis, enabled accurate detection and identification of arsenic stress with approximately 89% accuracy. We also performed high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-analysis of rice leaves to identify the key molecular analytes sensed by RS in confirming arsenic poisoning. We found that RS primarily detected a decrease in the concentration of lutein and an increase in the concentration of vanillic and ferulic acids due to the accumulation of arsenite and arsenate in rice. This showed that these molecules are detectable indicators of biochemical response to arsenic accumulation. Finally, a cross-correlation of RS with HPLC and ICP-MS demonstrated RS's potential for a label-free, non-invasive, and nondestructive quantification of arsenic accumulation in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study (pot experiment) investigated and compared the effectiveness of Se(VI) and Se(IV) application at a rate of 1.25 mg Se kg−1 soil on growth, physiology, yield and As uptake by spring wheat on an uncontaminated and As-contaminated (1.5 mg kg−1) soil. Selenate improved wheat grain yield, relative water contents, membrane stability index, total chlorophylls, and antioxidant activities up to 43%, 18.6%, 9.5%, 16.4% and 15–46%, respectively, compared to control under As-contaminated soil. As compared to Se(IV), in accordance with above results, Se(VI) application resulted in 5-fold higher grain Se concentration and 4.4-fold higher grain Se uptake, which are partially explained by 1.3-fold higher root to grain Se translocation factor in Se(VI)-fed plants under As-contaminated soil. Concomitantly, Se(VI) offered a stronger competitive effect on As uptake thereby reducing its concentration in grains by 11% and in shoots by 44%. Translocation factor of As from root to shoots and to grains was 33% and 14.2%, respectively lesser in Se(VI)-fed plants. Thus, it is concluded that Se(VI) application, through its beneficial effects on root morphological traits, improvement in antioxidant activity and physiological behavior, is highly effective in reducing As toxicity on yield and As accumulation in wheat grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a major cause of death worldwide. Although arsenic exposure has been associated with the risk of hypertension, this association appears nonuniform due to inconsistent results from studies conducted in different populations. Moreover, hypertension is a complex condition with multiple underlying mechanisms and factors. One factor is impaired production and bioavailability of vascular nitric oxide (NO). However, the implications of the effects of arsenic exposure on circulating NO and its association with hypertension in humans are largely unknown. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the dose–response relationship between arsenic exposure and hypertension with vascular NO levels as a potential mediator of arsenic-related hypertension in individuals exposed to a broad range of arsenic. METHODS: A total of 828 participants were recruited from low- and high-arsenic exposure areas in Bangladesh. Participants’ drinking water, hair, and nail arsenic concentrations were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy. Hypertension was defined as a systolic blood pressure (SBP) value of = 140 and a diastolic (DBP) value of = 90 mmHg. Serum NO levels reflected by total serum nitrite concentrations were measured by immunoassay. A formal causal mediation analysis was used to assess NO as a mediator of the association between arsenic level and hypertension. RESULTS: Increasing concentrations of arsenic measured in drinking water, hair, and nails were associated with the increasing levels of SBP and DBP. The odds of hypertension were dose-dependently increased by arsenic even in participants exposed to relatively low to moderate levels (10–50 µg/L) of water arsenic [odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs): 2.87 (95% CI: 1.28, 6.44), 2.67 (95% CI: 1.27, 5.60), and 5.04 (95% CI: 2.71, 9.35) for the 10–50 µg/L, 50.01–150 µg/L, and >150 µg/L groups, respectively]. Causal mediation analysis showed a significant mediating effect of NO on arsenic-related SBP, DBP, and hypertension. CONCLUSION: Increasing exposure to arsenic was associated with increasing odds of hypertension. The association was mediated through the reduction of vascular NO bioavailability, suggesting that impaired NO bioavailability was a plausible underlying mechanism of arsenic-induced hypertension in this Bangladeshi population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dimethylmonothioarsinic acid (DMMTAV), a pentavalent thio-arsenic derivative, has been found in bodily fluids and tissues including urine, liver, kidney homogenates, plasma, and red blood cells. Although DMMTAV is a minor metabolite in humans and animals, its substantial toxicity raises concerns about potential carcinogenic effects. This toxicity could be attributed to arsenicals' ability to regulate cytochrome P450 1 A (CYP1A) enzymes, pivotal in procarcinogen activation or detoxification. The current study investigates DMMTAV's impact on CYP1A1/2 expression, individually and in conjunction with its inducer, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p -dioxin (TCDD). C57BL/6 mice were intraperitoneally injected with 6 mg/kg DMMTAV, alone or with 15 μg/kg TCDD, for 6 and 24 h. Similarly, Hepa-1c1c7 cells were exposed to DMMTAV (0.5, 1, and 2 μM) with or without 1 nM TCDD for 6 and 24 h. DMMTAV hindered TCDD-induced elevation of Cyp1a1 mRNA, both in vivo (at 6 h) and in vitro, associated with reduced CYP1A regulatory element activation. Interestingly, in C57BL/6 mice, DMMTAV boosted TCDD-induced CYP1A1/2 protein and activity, unlike Hepa-1c1c7 cells where it suppressed both. DMMTAV co-exposure increased TCDD-induced Cyp1a2 mRNA. While Cyp1a1 mRNA stability remained unchanged, DMMTAV negatively affected protein stability, indicated by shortened half-life. Baseline levels of CYP1A1/2 mRNA, protein, and catalytic activities showed no significant alterations in DMMTAV-treated C57BL/6 mice and Hepa-1c1c7 cells. Taken together, these findings indicate, for the first time, that DMMTAV differentially modulates the TCDD-mediated induction of AHR-regulated enzymes in both liver of C57BL/6 mice and murine Hepa-1c1c7 cells suggesting that thio-arsenic pentavalent metabolites are extremely reactive and could play a role in the toxicity of arsenic. • DMMTAV differentially modulates the TCDD-inducible expression of CYP1A1/2 enzymes. • DMMTAV potentiates the TCDD-inducible expression of CYP1A1/2 in vivo. • DMMTAV inhibits the TCDD-inducible expression of CYP1A1/2 in vitro. • DMMTAV inhibits the AHR-dependent XRE-driven luciferase reporter activity in transfected Hepa-1c1c7 cells. • DMMTAV decreases the CYP1A1 protein half-life with no effect on the mRNA half-life in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic (As) is a toxic element for plants, animals and humans. The mitigation of As stress has been achieved via selenium (Se) and silica (Si) supplementations. However, the effects of combined application of Se and Si against As stress are not known. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of Se (0.5 and 1 mg L−1) and Si (10 and 30 mg L−1) on Oryza sativa L. (rice) subjected to during As (4 mg L−1) stress. The rice plants showed reduction in As accumulation in co-treatment of As + Se, As + Si and As + Se + Si in comparison to As alone treated plants (7 d). The maximum reduction of As accumulation in root and shoot was 57% and 64%, respectively in As + Se + Si treatment. The increase in enzymatic antioxidant system (superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione-s-transferase) along with decrease in oxidative stress markers (lipid peroxidation, dehydroascorbate reductase, ascorbate oxidase and hydrogen peroxide) in As + Se + Si treatment as compared to As treatment signified elevated tolerance of rice plants to As stress. Gene expressions of enzymes involved in antioxidant defence and thiol metabolism were found to be significantly positively correlated with their respective biochemical activities. In conclusion an optimum combination of Se and Si can be used to effectively mitigate As toxicity in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes the case of a 24-year-old male patient who developed acute hemolytic anemia following arsenic poisoning. Topics include his medical history of the patient, differential diagnosis, confirmation of an ischemic stroke of the brain following a neurological consultation, and a discussion on arsenic poisoning.

By releasing specialized metabolites, plants modify their environment. Whether and how specialized metabolites protect plants against toxic levels of trace elements is not well understood. We evaluated whether benzoxazinoids, which are released into the soil by major cereals, can confer protection against arsenic toxicity. Benzoxazinoid-producing maize plants performed better in arsenic-contaminated soils than benzoxazinoid-deficient mutants in the greenhouse and the field. Adding benzoxazinoids to the soil restored the protective effect, and the effect persisted to the next crop generation via positive plant--soil feedback. Arsenate levels in the soil and total arsenic levels in the roots were lower in the presence of benzoxazinoids. Thus, the protective effect of benzoxazinoids is likely soil-mediated and includes changes in soil arsenic speciation and root accumulation. We conclude that exuded specialized metabolites can enhance protection against toxic trace elements via soil-mediated processes and may thereby stabilize crop productivity in polluted agroecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A toxicogenomic approach was used for toxicity evaluation of arsenic in the aquatic environment, and differential gene expression was investigated from 24 h and 96 h water-only acute toxicity tests with the aquatic oligochaete, Tubifex tubifex (Annelida, Clitellata). Several toxicological endpoints (survival and autotomy) of the oligochaete and tissue residues were measured, and dose-response modelling of gene expression data was studied. A reference transcriptome of the aquatic oligochaete, T. tubifex, was reconstructed for the first time, and genes related to cell stress response (Hsc70, Hsp10, Hsp60, and Hsp83), energy metabolism (COX1), oxidative stress (Cat, GSR, and MnSOD), and the genes involved in the homeostasis of organisms (CaM, RpS13, and UBE2) were identified and characterised. The potential use of the genes identified for risk assessment in freshwater ecosystems as early biomarkers of arsenic toxicity is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The toxicity of arsenic is widely recognized globally, mainly harming human health by polluting water, soil, and food. However, its formulations can also be used for the clinical treatment of diseases such as leukemia and tumors. Arsenic has been used as a drug in China for over 2,400 years, with examples such as the arsenic-containing drug realgar mentioned in Shennong's Herbal Classic. We have reviewed references on arsenic over the past thirty years and found that research has mainly focused on clinical, pharmacological, and toxicological aspects. Results and Discussion: The finding showed that in clinical practice, arsenic trioxide is mainly used in combination with all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) at a dose of 10 mg/d for the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL); realgar can be used to treat acute promyelocytic leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, and lymphoma. In terms of pharmacology, arsenic mainly exerts anti-tumor effects. The dosage range of the action is 0.01-80 μmol/L, and the concentration of arsenic in most studies does not exceed 20 μmol/L. The pharmacological effects of realgar include antiviral activity, inhibition of overactivated lactate dehydrogenase, and resistance to malaria parasites. In terms of toxicity, arsenic is toxic to multiple systems in a dose-dependent manner. For example, 5 μmol/L sodium arsenite can induce liver oxidative damage and promote the expression of pro-inflammatory factors, and 15 μmol/L sodium arsenite induces myocardial injury; when the concentration is higher, it is more likely to cause toxic damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adverse effects of arsenic-chelating drugs make it essential to replace invasive chelating therapy with non-invasive oral therapy for arsenic poisoning. The goal of the current investigation was to determine whether the uterine damage caused by arsenization could be repaired by the n-butanol fraction of Moringa oleifera seed (NB). The rats were orally administered with arsenic (10 mg/kg BW) for the initial 8 days, followed by NB (50 mg/kg) for the next 8 days without arsenic. The probable existence of different components in NB was evaluated by HPLC–MS. Pro and anti-inflammatory indicators were assessed by RT-PCR and western blot. ESR-α was detected via immunostaining. Arsenic-exposed rats had significantly increased lipid peroxidation and decreased antioxidant enzyme activity, which were markedly reduced after NB treatment. Weaker ESR-α expression and distorted uterine histomorphology following arsenication were retrieved significantly by NB. Meaningful restoration by NB was also achieved for altered mRNA and protein expression of various inflammatory and apoptotic indicators. Molecular interaction predicted that glucomoringin and methyl glucosinolate of moringa interact with the catalytic site of caspase-3 in a way that limits its activity. However, NB was successful in restoring the arsenic-mediated uterine hypofunction. The glucomoringin and methyl glucosinolate present in n-butanol fraction may play a critical role in limiting apoptotic event in the arsenicated uterus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Our study reveals how FeO−NPs significantly increased plant defense systems against As and MPs stresses. • We document critical shifts in plant proteomes under the influence of As and MPs. • The research provides novel insights into the impact of stressors on chlorophyll synthesis and the activation of the AsA−GSH pathway in plants. • Our findings underscore the promising potential of using FeO−NPs in eco-agriculture to enhance plant resilience against environmental pollutants. This study provides a detailed biochemical analysis of the toxicity of arsenic (As) and polyvinyl chloride microplastics (PVC−MPs) to soil, and documents how iron oxide nanoparticles (FeO−NPs) can mitigate these effects, with a focus on the proteomic and physiological responses in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seedlings, expanding upon existing research in this area. For this purpose, we conducted a pot experiment in which seeds were primed with FeO−NPs at a concentration of 10 mg L−1 under toxic concentrations of As, specifically 150 and 300 mg kg−1, and PVC−MPs at concentrations of 2 and 4 mg L−1. Our results showed that the PVC−MPs and As toxicity in the soil showed a significant decline in the gas exchange attributes, sugars, AsA-GSH cycle, proline metabolism in T. aestivum seedlings. PVC−MPs and As toxicity in T. aestivum seedlings significantly increased oxidative stress biomarkers and both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, including their gene expression, while our analysis also incorporates Profilin Quantification for a deeper understanding of the quantitative protein involvement in these processes. Although, the application of FeO−NPs showed a significant increase in the chlorophyll content, gas exchange characteristics, enzymatic and non-enzymatic compounds and their gene expression, AsA-GSH cycle and also decreased the oxidative stress. These results open new insights for sustainable agriculture practices and hold immense promise in addressing the pressing challenges of heavy metal and MPs contamination in agricultural soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high toxicity of arsenic (As) can cause irreversible harm to the environment and human health. In this study, the chlorin e6 (Ce6), which emits fluorescence in the infrared region, was introduced as the luminescence center, and the addition of copper ion (Cu2+) and As(V) provoked a regular change in fluorescence at 652 nm, whereas that of As(III) was 665 nm, which was used to optionally detect Cu2+, arsenic (As(III), and As(V)). The limit of detection (LOD) values were 0.212 μM, 0.089 ppm, and 1.375 ppb for Cu2+, As(III), and As(V), respectively. The developed method can be used to determine Cu2+ and arsenic in water and soil with good sensitivity and selectivity. The 1:1 stoichiometry of Ce6 with Cu2+ was obtained from the Job plot that was developed from UV–visible spectra. The binding constants for Cu2+ and As(V) were established to be 1.248 × 105 M−1 and 2.35 × 1012 M−2, respectively, using B–H (Benesi–Hildebrand) plots. Fluorescence lifetimes, B–H plots, FT–IR, and 1H-NMR were used to postulate the mechanism of Cu2+ fluorescence quenching and As(V) fluorescence restoration and the interactions of the two ions with the Ce6 molecule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic is frequently used in alternative medicine, and it is critical to promptly identify and treat suspected arsenic toxicity in patients. In a case study, a female patient presented with several symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, bilateral tinnitus, hearing loss, vertigo, and other associated complaints. After admission, the patient showed lethargy, and topical application of Chinese herbal medicine was found on her left breast, along with visible pigmentation on her torso. Examination revealed severe bilateral sensorineural deafness, liver and kidney injury, and pancytopenia. Due to the presence of broken skin, toxicological analysis detected elevated levels of arsenic in both blood (113 ng/mL) and urine (865.4 ng/mL). The patient was diagnosed with arsenic poisoning and received symptomatic treatment, including detoxification. Unfortunately, the patient died due to long-term exposure to arsenic. Therefore, early identification of the etiology is crucial for managing cases of arsenic poisoning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic (As) is a metal with potentially toxic effects on different organisms. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) plays a vital role in mitigating heavy metal toxicity by reducing oxidative stress in plants and animals. However, the role of H2S in alleviating arsenic toxicity in yeast cells remains unclear. In this study, the role of NaHS (exogenous physiological H2S) in alleviating As-induced yeast cell death was investigated. Yeast cells in the logarithmic phase were pretreated with 0.05 mmol/L NaHS for 6 h, and then incubated in the YPD medium with or without 1 mmol/L As. After 12 h of treatment, relative survival rate, H2S content, oxidative stress biomarkers, and antioxidant machinery were measured. Our results showed that sodium arsenite-induced yeast cell death and pretreatment with 0.05 mmol/L NaHS significantly alleviated sodium arsenite-induced cell death. Under sodium arsenite conditions, the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) increased, accompanied by the inhibition of the catalase (CAT) activity and the downregulation of CTT1 expression. However, the activities of the superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathion peroxidase (GPX) increased, and the expression of SOD1 and GPX2 was markedly upregulated in the group treated with sodium arsenite. When yeast cells were pretreated with NaHS, the intracellular ROS and MDA levels decreased significantly, and the activities of SOD, CAT, and GPX increased significantly. This was associated with a significant increase in relative survival rate and H2S content compared to the arsenic treatment alone. Our findings indicate that NaHS alleviates sodium arsenite-induced yeast cell death, mainly by enhancing the antioxidant defense system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Chronic arsenic exposure has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease; diabetes; cancers of the lung, pancreas and prostate; and all-cause mortality in American Indian communities in the Strong Heart Study. OBJECTIVE: The Strong Heart Water Study (SHWS) designed and evaluated a multilevel, community-led arsenic mitigation program to reduce arsenic exposure among private well users in partnership with Northern Great Plains American Indian Nations. METHODS: A cluster randomized controlled trial (cRCT) was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the SHWS arsenic mitigation program over a 2-y period on a) urinary arsenic, and b) reported use of arsenic-safe water for drinking and cooking. The cRCT compared the installation of a pointof- use arsenic filter and a mobile Health (mHealth) program (3 phone calls; SHWS mHealth and Filter arm) to a more intensive program, which included this same program plus three home visits (3 phone calls and 3 home visits; SHWS Intensive arm). RESULTS: A 47% reduction in urinary arsenic [geometric mean (GM)=13.2 to 7.0 μg/g creatinine] was observed from baseline to the final follow-up when both study arms were combined. By treatment arm, the reduction in urinary arsenic from baseline to the final follow-up visit was 55% in the mHealth and Filter arm (GM=14.6 to 6.55 μg/g creatinine) and 30% in the Intensive arm (GM=11.2 to 7.82 μg/g creatinine). There was no significant difference in urinary arsenic levels by treatment arm at the final follow-up visit comparing the Intensive vs. mHealth and Filter arms: GM ratio of 1.21 (95% confidence interval: 0.77, 1.90). In both arms combined, exclusive use of arsenic-safe water from baseline to the final follow-up visit significantly increased for water used for cooking (17% to 53%) and drinking (12% to 46%). DISCUSSION: Delivery of the interventions for the community-led SHWS arsenic mitigation program, including the installation of a point-of-use arsenic filter and a mHealth program on the use of arsenic-safe water (calls only, no home visits), resulted in a significant reduction in urinary arsenic and increases in reported use of arsenic-safe water for drinking and cooking during the 2-y study period. These results demonstrate that the installation of an arsenic filter and phone calls from a mHealth program presents a promising approach to reduce water arsenic exposure among private well users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental arsenic exposure is a significant global public health concern. Previous studies have demonstrated the association between arsenic‐induced liver injury and oxidative stress as well as ferroptosis. However, the knowledge of the interactions among these mechanisms remains limited. Moreover, there is a lack of research on potential therapeutic interventions for liver injury resulting from arsenic exposure. To address these limitations, we established a rat model with liver injury caused by arsenic exposure and investigated the impact of the nuclear factor E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2)/glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPx4) signaling pathway and ferroptosis on arsenic‐induced liver injury. Our findings revealed that arsenic increased Nrf2 expression and decreased GPx4 expression in the rat liver. This was accompanied by a substantial generation of reactive oxygen species and disruption of the antioxidant defense system, ultimately promoting liver injury through ferroptosis. Subsequently, we conducted intervention experiments using Rosa roxburghii Tratt (RRT) in rats exposed to arsenic. The results showed that the detrimental effects mentioned earlier were partially alleviated following RRT intervention. This study offers preliminary evidence that persistent activation of Nrf2 by arsenic triggers an adaptive antioxidant response, leading to liver injury through the promotion of ferroptosis. Additionally, we discovered that RRT inhibits Nrf2‐mediated adaptive antioxidant responses by reducing hepatic ferroptosis, thereby mitigating liver injury caused by arsenic exposure in rats. Our study contributes to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying liver injury resulting from arsenic exposure. Furthermore, our findings may facilitate the identification of a potential edible and medicinal plant extracts that could be utilized to develop a more effective adjunctive treatment approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]