Articles tagged with Environmental Toxicology
A new study found that nearly every person in the US has multiple man-made chemicals, known as PFAS, in their system. The study examined over 10,500 samples and found that 98.8% contained at least one PFAS, with many carrying multiple types.
FAU engineering researcher Masoud Jahandar Lashaki has been awarded a prestigious NSF CAREER award to study the oxidative degradation of amine-functionalized sorbents. The project aims to design longer-lasting technologies for capturing pollutants from air and water, improving indoor and outdoor air quality.
Researchers developed a DNA methylation-based biomarker associated with arsenic exposure that can predict toxicity risk. The biomarker identified sites in the genome linked to arsenic exposure and showed strong evidence of causal relationships between arsenic exposure and chronic conditions like cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Researchers have discovered that native soil bacteria can degrade persistent pollutants like dioxins without genetic engineering. Using decoy molecules, the bacteria's natural enzymes are tricked into breaking down these toxic compounds.
A long-term study found children living near the Salton Sea have slower lung function growth, with effects comparable to freeway exposure. The researchers controlled for various factors and found that dust exposure was linked to lower lung capacity, suggesting potential long-term health implications.
A new study reveals that even low concentrations of pharmaceuticals, microplastics, and other chemicals can subtly alter plant physiology and disrupt soil health, posing wider environmental and human health risks. The review emphasizes the need for stronger regulation and redesign of chemicals to make them safer.
A new study predicts that nearly one in three Americans will experience poor air quality daily by 2100 due to climate change. This could lead to widespread health issues, particularly among sensitive populations like the elderly and those with asthma.
A new study by researchers at the University of California, Davis found that breathing in common disinfectant chemicals known as QACs can be far more harmful than swallowing them. The study suggests higher health risks for respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD from airborne exposure to disinfectant sprays and cleaning products.
UL Research Institutes' Chemical Insights will present findings on chemical exposures and health risks, highlighting new methods for faster, more transparent science. The institute aims to protect people and communities through open science, education, and collaboration.
ToxIndex integrates AI agents to access and orchestrate toxicological resources, providing comprehensive risk assessments in hours. The platform addresses a critical need in chemical and drug safety, meeting the vision of the 2007 NRC report for 21st-century safety testing.
ToxIndex integrates three tiers of New Approach Methodologies, leveraging AI agents to access and orchestrate toxicological resources, and providing comprehensive, source-traceable risk assessments in a fraction of the time required by traditional methods.
Scientists create fluorescent nanoplastics that resemble real-world plastics in morphology, enabling real-time tracking and studying chronic exposure effects. The study reveals that smaller particles retain longer in the body, highlighting the need for further research on health risks due to microplastic ingestion.
A SFU study found that warmer temperatures in the Arctic can cause malnutrition in seals, intensifying risks to Inuit food security and northern ecosystems. The research analyzed samples from 38 Arctic ringed seals and found high levels of persistent contaminants such as PCBs and mercury.
Chemical Insights scientists received awards for their research on vaping-associated exposures and health risks, as well as other papers that integrate molecular biology or systems biology to toxicology research. The institute's efforts aim to safeguard public health by advancing scientific understanding of chemical risks.
A new study reveals that current pesticide use trends fall short of the 50% reduction target by 2030, threatening global biodiversity. The research team analyzed global pesticide data and found significant increases in applied toxicity, driven by higher amounts applied and growing toxicity of active ingredients.
Researchers developed AOP-ExpoVis platform integrating exposome data with AOP knowledge to predict chemical toxicity mechanisms. The approach identifies key biological events linking environmental exposures to disease outcomes across multiple chemicals and disease types.
Researchers discovered that a significant drop in calcium levels in the ocean led to a massive decrease in carbon dioxide, driving global cooling and ending the planet's greenhouse era. The study suggests that changes in seawater chemistry played a key role in shaping climate history.
A recent study found that common flea and tick control medications used in dogs and cats can contaminate ecosystems with toxic chemicals. Isoxazoline antiparasitic drugs, used globally since 2013, may harm dung-feeding insects, including flies and butterflies, which are crucial for nutrient cycling and soil health.
A Stanford University-led study found that gas stoves emit significant amounts of nitrogen dioxide, a pollutant linked to health issues such as asthma and lung cancer. Replacing gas stoves with electric ones reduces nitrogen dioxide exposure by over a quarter on average across the US.
Researchers at Duke University traced PFAS contamination to a local textile manufacturing plant in Burlington, NC. The facility was releasing solid nanoparticle PFAS precursors into the sewer system, which were then transformed into regulated forms of PFAS that current tests can detect.
A new policy brief argues that current EU regulations fail to account for the risks of chemical mixtures, which can exceed safe levels even below individual substance limits. Scientists propose integrating a Mixture Allocation Factor into the REACH Regulation to regulate mixtures and improve protection of human health and the environment.
Researchers found high levels of ultrashort-chain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in blood samples from Wilmington residents between 2010-2016. The study highlights the dominance of short-chain PFAS, such as PFMOAA and TFA, which were previously thought not to bioaccumulate.
Researchers from Florida International University have detected a dozen different PFAS compounds within the Miccosukee Indian Reservation in the Everglades. The findings raise questions about potential impacts on water quality and ecosystem health, particularly with regards to ongoing Everglades restoration efforts.
Researchers found high lead concentrations in humans, wild animals, and fish in a remote Peruvian Amazon community. The main sources of contamination were river water used for drinking and cooking, as well as lead ammunition used in subsistence hunting.
A study of 9/11 first responders found mutations in blood-forming cells may explain increased leukemia risk, suggesting a targeted intervention against environmental toxins. The research also identified IL1RAP as a protein culprit, which could be used to prevent or treat blood cancers in individuals exposed to similar disasters.
A new study by Environmental Working Group found that consuming certain fruits and vegetables can increase pesticide levels in people's bodies. The study suggests that everyday food choices can drive significant pesticide exposure and highlights the need for safer food systems.
Researchers discovered that Atlantic Bluefin tuna primarily rely on the spleen to break down methylmercury, converting it into stable, non-toxic compounds. This process involves selenium binding mercury into complexes that are far less toxic.
Research on killifish reveals that maternal exposure to toxic substances like crude oil and flame retardants can have lasting impacts on offspring and subsequent generations. Exposure to these chemicals during critical developmental windows can alter gene function, behavior, and health outcomes in humans and wildlife.
Researchers found that brown anole lizards can withstand extreme lead levels without impairment. Transcriptomic analyses revealed minor effects on brain and liver tissue, with altered genes linked to metal ion regulation.
Researchers develop efficient testing procedure to quickly detect neurotoxic effects in humans, closing the gap with traditional animal experiments. Chlorophene is identified as a substance that disrupts learning and memory processes, exhibiting paradoxical excitation, a previously unknown effect.
A study from University of Louisville researchers found that perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) can worsen liver damage when combined with alcohol consumption. The study showed that PFOS exposure can increase fat accumulation and markers of liver damage, disrupt the liver's ability to manage fats, and activate pathways that promote liver...
A study by University of Notre Dame researchers found that almost a third of reusable menstrual products contain PFAS, despite being marketed as eco-friendly. The presence of these toxic fluorinated compounds poses risks to both users and the environment when disposed of.
A new Korea University study provides the first species-specific health risk estimates for indoor airborne microbes based on animal toxicity data. The research determines that exposure to fungi may be unsafe even at levels below current guidelines, while bacteria are within existing regulatory limits.
Research suggests that nine commonly used pesticides in viticulture have significantly underestimated environmental impact, with half-lives exceeding two days and potential for long-range transport.
Research reveals that high temperatures and exposure to heavy metals reduce the frequency and pitch of non-flight wing vibrations in bees. This affects their communication, defense, and buzz-pollination abilities, which are crucial for plant reproduction and biodiversity.
Scientists have discovered that certain species of gut bacteria can absorb PFAS, potentially protecting against its harmful effects. The researchers plan to develop probiotic dietary supplements to boost the levels of these helpful microbes in our gut.
A study by the University of California, Davis found that disposable e-cigarettes release higher amounts of toxic metals than older e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes. The devices contain hazardous levels of neurotoxic lead, carcinogenic nickel, and antimony, posing significant health risks to users.
Australian scientists developed a new method to evaluate the risks posed by toxicants like insecticides in waterways. The Temporal Response Surface (TRS) approach integrates exposure duration into ecosystem protection guidelines, providing a more accurate assessment of delayed and time-cumulative aquatic ecosystem risk.
The Mass Query Language (MassQL) tool empowers scientists to uncover previously unknown pollutants in massive chemical datasets. It has identified toxic compounds hidden in plain sight, including organophosphate esters and chemicals from breaking down over time.
A University of Helsinki study shows that pesticides can negatively affect non-target species living in agricultural environments. The effects vary greatly depending on the substance tested, with one fungicide increasing mortality rates and reducing reproductive success in butterflies.
A new study published in Environmental Pollution found that plastic ingested by northern fulmars can leak chemicals that interfere with the birds' hormone systems. The chemicals, such as BPA and phthalates, can impair fertility, development, and behavior, posing a significant threat to species survival.
Researchers developed a cell-based reporter assay that can quantify epigenetic changes induced by chemicals and potential carcinogens. The epi-TK assay detects gene silencing and activation, reflecting epigenetic changes associated with both gene expression and DNA methylation.
A group of long-lasting compounds called PFAS are ubiquitous in everyday products and the environment. Researchers hope to learn which ones are more toxic, and for whom, by using tiny worms to test their health effects.
Researchers developed an ultra precise technique to count and analyze nanoplastics in water, soil, and plant tissues. The OM-SERS setup uses lasers, gold nanoparticles, and microfluidics to detect specific types of plastics and their concentrations.
A study by Pusan National University uncovers the impact of nanoplastic exposure on red blood cell maturation in zebrafish embryos. Exposure to polystyrene nanoparticles disrupts normal blood cell development, leading to an increase in immature RBCs and a decrease in mature RBCs.
Researchers found significant concentrations of persistent organic compounds in lichens and mosses in the Irati forest, exceeding those in similar environments. The study suggests that urban and agricultural practices have impacted local air quality, emphasizing the need for controlling combustion processes to reduce PAHs.
A GEOMAR study detects high levels of munitions chemicals in Baltic Sea water samples, with concentrations approaching critical levels. The contamination is expected to increase without removal action, posing a long-term environmental risk.
The University of Arizona has approved a new Bachelor of Science in Medical Pharmacology and Toxicology degree to support the AZ Healthy Tomorrow initiative. The program explores the effects of chemicals on human health and prepares students for jobs in fields like poison control, medical courier, and sanitization compliance.
New study highlights significant gaps in understanding how sunscreens affect marine ecosystems, with chemicals entering the environment through various pathways. Researchers emphasize the need for comprehensive studies to understand the effects of UV filters on marine life and potential risks to human health.
A new study by Silent Spring Institute reveals how California's Proposition 65 law has driven companies to reformulate products, reducing the use of toxic chemicals and promoting safer consumer goods. The research found that companies prioritize eliminating Prop 65 chemicals altogether to avoid warnings and litigation.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology found that biochar significantly reduces DDT uptake by earthworms in contaminated soil, halving the toxin's presence. This method could enable farming on land deemed unusable due to environmental risks.
The study proposes a novel approach for simultaneous extraction of metabolites and lipids from zebrafish embryos to shed light on PFOS-induced neurotoxicity. The researchers found that sphingolipids are a reliable biomarker of PFOS-induced neurotoxicity, and the method can be expanded to various biomolecules.
Researchers from the Keck School of Medicine of USC found an association between levels of manmade “forever chemicals” in drinking water and certain digestive, endocrine, respiratory, and mouth and throat cancers. The study estimated that PFAS contamination contributes to 6,864 cancer cases per year.
Researchers found 1,806 suspected particles across 180 samples of Oregon's marine and freshwater species. Pink shrimp had the highest concentrations, while Chinook salmon had the lowest. The study highlights a need for technologies to reduce microfiber pollution entering the environment.
A new AI-driven approach identifies potentially harmful chemical substances in rivers by monitoring their effects on tiny water fleas, providing insights into complex mixtures and aquatic life. The study enables more comprehensive environmental monitoring and supports better-informed regulations for chemical discharge into waterways.
A study by Chiba University researchers has identified 106 compounds in pregnant women's serum samples, including phthalates, nitrogenous compounds, and parabens, which may impact biological pathways. The study proposes a non-targeted approach for detecting foreign chemicals and evaluating their potential health effects.
A new study suggests that addressing plastic pollution could play a critical role in lowering breast cancer rates. Researchers identified nearly half of the chemicals linked to breast cancer risk as being used in plastics, including 175 potential carcinogens that should be prioritized for regulatory action.
A UC Riverside study found that probiotic supplementation can reduce the negative impacts of PBDEs on neurodevelopment, behavior, and metabolism in mouse offspring. The researchers discovered that LR treatment helped normalize body weight gain and tooth eruption timing, as well as improved glucose metabolism and insulin levels.
A new study by Silent Spring Institute has identified multiple chemical exposures in firefighters that increase their risk of developing breast cancer. The research found 12 hazardous substances, including benzene and flame retardants, that put female firefighters at increased risk for the disease.
A new study by Brown University researchers found that using personal care products during pregnancy is associated with higher concentrations of PFAS in blood plasma and breast milk. The study suggests that people concerned about their exposure may benefit from cutting back on these products.