Proposed mechanism for understanding the dose- and time-dependency of the effects of fluoride in the liver.

Fluoride (F) can induce changes in the expression of several liver proteins. It is suggested that these changes are dose- and time-dependent. The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of different F concentrations and exposure times to this ion on the pattern of protein expression in the liver of rats. Thirt-six 21-day-old male Wistar rats were divided into 2 groups (n = 18) according to the treatment duration (20 or 60 days). Each of these groups was then divided into 3 subgroups (n = 6) according to the concentration of F administered in drinking water, as follows: 0 mg/L (control), 15 mg/L or 50 mg/L. After the experiment periods, the animals were anesthetized and the liver and blood were collected. F was analyzed in plasma and liver. Part of the liver was fixed for histological analysis. Liver proteins were extracted and prepared for quantitative label-free mass spectrometry analysis. F concentrations in plasma and liver were significantly higher in the group treated with 50 mg /L in comparison with control, regardless the time of exposure. Histological alterations in the liver were more evident in the subgroups treated for 20 days. The proteomic analysis revealed changes in proteins related to endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial oxidative stress, mitochondrial alteration, apoptosis and cellular respiration upon exposure to F. The results reinforce previous findings showing that the effects of F in the liver are dose- and time-dependent and provide the molecular basis for understanding the evolution of these effects.

Liver proteome of mice with different genetic susceptibilities to the effects of fluoride.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we investigated the differential pattern of protein expression in the liver of these mice to provide insights on why they have different responses to F. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Weanling male A/J and 129P3/J mice (n=10 from each strain) were pared and housed in metabolic cages with ad libitum access to low-F food and deionized water for 42 days. Liver proteome profiles were examined using nLC-MS/MS. Protein function was classified by GO biological process (Cluego v2.0.7 + Clupedia v1.0.8) and protein-protein interaction network was constructed (PSICQUIC, Cytoscape). RESULTS: Most proteins with fold change were increased in A/J mice. The functional category with the highest percentage of altered genes was oxidation-reduction process (20%). Subnetwork analysis revealed that proteins with fold change interacted with Disks large homolog 4 and Calcium-activated potassium channel subunit alpha-1. A/J mice had an increase in proteins related to energy flux and oxidative stress. CONCLUSION: This could be a possible explanation for the high susceptibility of these mice to the effects of F, since the exposure also induces oxidative stress.

Liver proteome of mice with different genetic susceptibilities to the effects of fluoride

ABSTRACT A/J and 129P3/J mice strains have been widely studied over the last few years because they respond quite differently to fluoride (F) exposure. 129P3/J mice are remarkably resistant to the development of dental fluorosis, despite excreting less F in urine and having higher circulating F levels. These two strains also present different characteristics regardless of F exposure. Objective In this study, we investigated the differential pattern of protein expression in the liver of these mice to provide insights on why they have different responses to F. Material and Methods Weanling male A/J and 129P3/J mice (n=10 from each strain) were pared and housed in metabolic cages with ad libitum access to low-F food and deionized water for 42 days. Liver proteome profiles were examined using nLC-MS/MS. Protein function was classified by GO biological process (Cluego v2.0.7 + Clupedia v1.0.8) and protein-protein interaction network was constructed (PSICQUIC, Cytoscape). Results Most proteins with fold change were increased in A/J mice. The functional category with the highest percentage of altered genes was oxidation-reduction process (20%). Subnetwork analysis revealed that proteins with fold change interacted with Disks large homolog 4 and Calcium-activated potassium channel subunit alpha-1. A/J mice had an increase in proteins related to energy flux and oxidative stress. Conclusion This could be a possible explanation for the high susceptibility of these mice to the effects of F, since the exposure also induces oxidative stress.

Supplementation of soft drinks with metallic ions reduces dissolution of bovine enamel.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of metallic ions to carbonated drinks on their erosive potential. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Powdered enamel was added to carbonated beverages (Coca-ColaTM or Sprite ZeroTM and shaken for 30 s. The samples were then immediately centrifuged and the supernatant removed. This procedure was repeated 5 times with the beverages containing Cu2+, Mg2+, Mn2+ or Zn2+ (1.25-60 mmol/L). For Coca-ColaTM, the concentration of each ion that exhibited the highest protection was also evaluated in combination with Fe2+. The phosphate or calcium released were analyzed spectrophotometrically. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's test (p<0.05). RESULTS: For Coca-ColaTM, the best protective effect was observed for Zn2+ alone (10 mmol/L) or in combination (1 mmol/L) with other ions (12% and 27%, respectively, when compared with the control). Regarding Sprite ZeroTM, the best protective effect was observed for Cu2+ at 15 and 30 mmol/L, which decreased the dissolution by 22-23%. Zn2+ at 2.5 mmol/L also reduced the dissolution of powdered enamel by 8%. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that the combination of metallic ions can be an alternative to reduce the erosive potential of Coca-ColaTM. Regarding Sprite ZeroTM, the addition of Cu2+ seems to be the best alternative.

Proteomic analysis of liver in rats chronically exposed to fluoride.

Fluoride (F) is a potent anti-cariogenic element, but when ingestion is excessive, systemic toxicity may be observed. This can occur as acute or chronic responses, depending on both the amount of F and the time of exposure. The present study identified the profile of protein expression possibly associated with F-induced chronic hepatotoxicity. Weanling male Wistar rats (three-weeks old) were divided into three groups and treated with drinking water containing 0, 5 or 50 mg/L F for 60 days (n=6/group). At this time point, serum and livers were collected for F analysis, which was done using the ion-sensitive electrode, after hexamethyldisiloxane-facilitated diffusion. Livers were also submitted to histological and proteomic analyses (2D-PAGE followed by LC-MS/MS). Western blotting was done for confirmation of the proteomic data A dose-response was observed in serum F levels. In the livers, F levels were significantly increased in the 50 mg/L F group compared to groups treated with 0 and 5 mg/L F. Liver morphometric analysis did not reveal alterations in the cellular structures and lipid droplets were present in all groups. Proteomic quantitative intensity analysis detected 33, 44, and 29 spots differentially expressed in the comparisons between control vs. 5 mg/L F, control vs. 50 mg/L F, and 5 mg/L vs. 50 mg/L F, respectively. From these, 92 proteins were successfully identified. In addition, 18, 1, and 5 protein spots were shown to be exclusive in control, 5, and 50 mg/L F, respectively. Most of proteins were related to metabolic process and pronounced alterations were seen for the high-F level group. In F-treated rats, changes in the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) and GRP-78 expression may account for the F-induced toxicity in the liver. This can contribute to understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying hepatoxicity induced by F, by indicating key-proteins that should be better addressed in future studies.

Supplementation of soft drinks with metallic ions reduces dissolution of bovine enamel

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the addition of metallic ions to carbonated drinks on their erosive potential. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Powdered enamel was added to carbonated beverages (Coca-ColaTM or Sprite ZeroTM and shaken for 30 s. The samples were then immediately centrifuged and the supernatant removed. This procedure was repeated 5 times with the beverages containing Cu2+, Mg2+, Mn2+ or Zn2+ (1.25-60 mmol/L). For Coca-ColaTM, the concentration of each ion that exhibited the highest protection was also evaluated in combination with Fe2+. The phosphate or calcium released were analyzed spectrophotometrically. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's test (p<0.05). RESULTS: For Coca-ColaTM, the best protective effect was observed for Zn2+ alone (10 mmol/L) or in combination (1 mmol/L) with other ions (12% and 27%, respectively, when compared with the control). Regarding Sprite ZeroTM, the best protective effect was observed for Cu2+ at 15 and 30 mmol/L, which decreased the dissolution by 22-23%. Zn2+ at 2.5 mmol/L also reduced the dissolution of powdered enamel by 8%. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that the combination of metallic ions can be an alternative to reduce the erosive potential of Coca-ColaTM. Regarding Sprite ZeroTM, the addition of Cu2+ seems to be the best alternative. .

Análise proteômica em fígado de ratos submetidos à exposição crônica ao flúor / Proteomic analysis of liver in rats chronically exposed to fluoride

O recente desenvolvimento de técnicas proteômicas tem permitido a análise do perfil proteico completo dos sistemas biológicos, permitindo um melhor entendimento da fisiologia normal do organismo, bem como dos mecanismos de doenças, descoberta de biomarcadores para detecção precoce de doenças, identificação de novas terapias e descobertas de fármacos. No presente trabalho, a análise proteômica foi usada para auxiliar no entendimento dos mecanismos moleculares envolvidos na intoxicação induzida pelo fluoretono fígado de ratos e definir biomarcadores potenciais de toxicidade. Três grupos de ratos Wistar machos recém-desmamados (21 dias de vida) foram tratados ad libitum com água de beber contendo 0 (controle), 5 ou 50 mg/L de fluoreto, por 60 dias (n=6/grupo). Os animais foram eutanasiados e o fígado e o soro foram coletados. O fígado foi dividido em lobos, sendo que o esquerdo foi destinado à dosagem de fluoreto (eletrodo íon-sensível, após difusão facilitada por hexametildisiloxano), o direito à análise histológica (hematoxilina e eosina) e o mediano, à análise proteômica (eletroforese bidimensional associada a LC-MS/MS). Os dados foram analisados por ANOVA e teste de Tukey (p<0,05). Foi possível detectar uma dose-resposta em relação à ingestão para os níveis de fluoreto presentes no soro e no fígado houve diferença significativa entre os grupos que receberam 5 e 50 mg/L de fluoreto. A análise morfométrica histológica não revelou alterações nas estruturas celulares e exame o morfológico indicou inclusões lipídicas nos grupos 5 mg/L e 50 mg/L de fluoreto, mais intensas no último. A análise quantitativa de intensidade (software ImageMaster 2D-Platinum v 7.0), comparando a porcentagem de alteração de volume do spot protéico, revelou que 33, 44 e 29 spots aumentaram ou diminuíram sua expressão nos grupos controle X 5 mg/L, controle X 50 mg/L e 5 mg/L X 50 mg/L de fluoreto, respectivamente. Além disto, foram encontradas 18, 1 e 5 spots exclusivos nos grupos...

The recent development of proteomic techniques allowed the analysis of the whole proteomic profile of the biological systems, allowing the comprehension of the normal physiology, as well as of the mechanisms underlying diseases. It has also made easier the discovery of biomarkers of diseases, as well as the identification of new therapies and drugs. In the present study, proteomic analysis was used as a tool to help understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying chronic fluoride toxicity in rat liver and also to define potential biomarkers of toxicity. Three groups of weanling male Wistarrats (21 days) were treated ad libitum with drinking water containing 0 (control), 5 or 50 mg/L fluoride for 60 days (n=6/group). After euthanasia, liver and serum were collected. The liver was divided into lobes. The left lobe was used for fluoride analysis (ion-sensitive electrode, after hexamethyldisiloxane-facilitated diffusion). The right lobe was used for histological analysis (hematoxylin and eosine) while the median was used for proteomic analysis (2D-PAGE associated with LC-MS/MS). Data were analysed by ANOVA and Tukeys test, (p<0.05). A dose-response relationship was observed for serum fluoride levels. In liver, a significant increase in fluoride levels was observed in the 50 mg/L group when compared with the 5 mg/L group. Morphometric analysis did not reveal alterations in the cellular structures. The morphological exam revealed macrovesicular lipid droplets in the 5 and 50 mg/L groups which were more intense in the later. Quantitative intensity analysis (software ImageMaster 2D-Platinum v 7.0) comparing the percentage of alteration of volume of protein spots revealed 33, 44 and 29 protein spots that had increase or decrease in expression in the groups control X 5 mg/L, control X 50 mg/L and 5 mg/L X 50 mg/L, respectively. In addition, 18, 1 and 5 protein spots were detected exclusively in groups control, 5 mg/L and 50 mg/L, respectively. From the...

Recovery of silver residues from dental amalgam.

UNLABELLED: Dental amalgam residues are probably the most important chemical residues generated from clinical dental practice because of the presence of heavy metals among its constituents, mainly mercury and silver. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to develop an alternative method for the recovery of silver residues from dental amalgam. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The residue generated after vacuum distillation of dental amalgam for the separation of mercury was initially diluted with 32.5% HNO3, followed by precipitation with 20% NaCl. Sequentially, under constant heating and agitation with NaOH and sucrose, the sample was reduced to metallic silver. However, the processing time was too long, which turned this procedure not viable. In another sequence of experiments, the dilution was accomplished with concentrated HNO3 at 90 degrees C, followed by precipitation with 20% NaCl. After washing, the pellet was diluted with concentrated NH4OH, water and more NaCl in order to facilitate the reaction with the reducer. RESULTS: Ascorbic acid was efficiently used as reducer, allowing a fast reduction, thus making the procedure viable. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed methodology is of easy application and does not require sophisticated equipment or expensive reagents.

Recovery of silver residues from dental amalgam

Dental amalgam residues are probably the most important chemical residues generated from clinical dental practice because of the presence of heavy metals among its constituents, mainly mercury and silver. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to develop an alternative method for the recovery of silver residues from dental amalgam. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The residue generated after vacuum distillation of dental amalgam for the separation of mercury was initially diluted with 32.5 percent HNO3, followed by precipitation with 20 percent NaCl. Sequentially, under constant heating and agitation with NaOH and sucrose, the sample was reduced to metallic silver. However, the processing time was too long, which turned this procedure not viable. In another sequence of experiments, the dilution was accomplished with concentrated HNO3 at 90ºC, followed by precipitation with 20 percent NaCl. After washing, the pellet was diluted with concentrated NH4OH, water and more NaCl in order to facilitate the reaction with the reducer. RESULTS: Ascorbic acid was efficiently used as reducer, allowing a fast reduction, thus making the procedure viable. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed methodology is of easy application and does not require sophisticated equipment or expensive reagents.