scholarly journals Ultrasensitive detection of endocrine disruptors via superfine plasmonic spectral combs

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Lanhua Liu ◽  
Xuejun Zhang ◽  
Qian Zhu ◽  
Kaiwei Li ◽  
Yun Lu ◽  
...  

AbstractThe apparent increase in hormone-induced cancers and disorders of the reproductive tract has led to a growing demand for new technologies capable of detecting endocrine disruptors. However, a long-lasting challenge unaddressed is how to achieve ultrahigh sensitive, continuous, and in situ measurement with a portable device for in-field and remote environmental monitoring. Here we demonstrate a simple-to-implement plasmonic optical fiber biosensing platform to achieve an improved light–matter interaction and advanced surface chemistry for ultrasensitive detection of endocrine disruptors. Our platform is based on a gold-coated highly tilted fiber Bragg grating that excites high-density narrow cladding mode spectral combs that overlap with the broad absorption of the surface plasmon for high accuracy interrogation, hence enabling the ultrasensitive monitoring of refractive index changes at the fiber surface. Through the use of estrogen receptors as the model, we design an estradiol–streptavidin conjugate with the assistance of molecular dynamics, converting the specific recognition of environmental estrogens (EEs) by estrogen receptor into surface-based affinity bioassay for protein. The ultrasensitive platform with conjugate-induced amplification biosensing approach enables the subsequent detection for EEs down to 1.5 × 10−3 ng ml−1 estradiol equivalent concentration level, which is one order lower than the defined maximal E2 level in drinking water set by the Japanese government. The capability to detect EEs down to nanogram per liter level is the lowest limit of detection for any estrogen receptor-based detection reported thus far. Its compact size, flexible shape, and remote operation capability open the way for detecting other endocrine disruptors with ultrahigh sensitivity and in various hard-to-reach spaces, thereby having the potential to revolutionize environment and health monitoring.

2005 ◽  
Vol 90 (8) ◽  
pp. 4716-4721 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rie Yoshida ◽  
Maki Fukami ◽  
Isoji Sasagawa ◽  
Tomonobu Hasegawa ◽  
Naoyuki Kamatani ◽  
...  

Context: The prevalence of cryptorchidism (CO) has increased during the past few decades in several countries, and this event has primarily been ascribed to the estrogenic effects of environmental endocrine disruptors (EEDs). Little is known, however, about the role of genetic susceptibility to EEDs in this phenomenon. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine whether CO is associated with a specific haplotype of the gene for estrogen receptor α (ESR1) that mediates the estrogenic effects of EEDs. Design: This was a case-control study. Setting: The study was performed at the National Research Institute and University Hospitals. Subjects: Sixty-three cryptorchid males, aged 1–13 yr, and 47 control males, aged 4–12 yr, were studied. Intervention: After genotyping 15 single nucleotide polymorphisms widely distributed in the greater than 300-kb genomic sequences of ESR1, haplotype analysis was performed. Main Outcome Measure: Identification of a specific ESR1 haplotype associated with CO was the main outcome measure. Results: A haplotype block was identified for an approximately 50-kb region encompassing single nucleotide polymorphisms 10–14 in the 3′ region of ESR1 in both groups. The frequency of the estimated AGATA haplotype within the block was higher in the patients than in the control males (34.0% vs. 21.3%; P = 0.037), and the association of this haplotype with CO phenotype was significant in a recessive mode (P = 0.0060). The homozygosity for this haplotype was identified only in the patients, and the frequency of the homozygotes was significantly different between the two groups (10 of 63 vs. zero of 47; P = 0.0042). Conclusions: The association of CO with homozygosity for the specific ESR1 haplotype suggests the relevance of genetic susceptibility to EEDs in the development of CO.


2021 ◽  
Vol 156 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S134-S135
Author(s):  
T Berent ◽  
T Rothstein ◽  
S Buckwalter ◽  
R Patel

Abstract Introduction/Objective Molecular assays for Bartonella species are important in diagnosing infection and expediting patient treatment. Real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) using fluorescent resonance energy transfer (FRET) hybridization probes can be used to detect Bartonella species in blood and fresh/fixed tissue biopsies in RT-PCR instruments. Over time, new technologies and reagents are introduced and existing PCR primers and FRET probes must be re-validated on new platforms. This study aimed to compare the performance of a Bartonella RT-PCR assay using the sunsetting Roche LightCycler® 2.0 (Roche Diagnostics, Indianapolis, IN) and newer LightCycler® 480 RT- PCR instruments. Methods/Case Report DNA was extracted from 132 historically positive, whole organism spiked, and historically negative whole blood and formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) samples. Samples were run on the LightCycler® 2.0 using instrument specific LightCycler® FastStart DNA Master HybProbe enzyme and compared to results generated using the LightCycler® 480 and its instrument specific LightCycler® 480 Genotyping Master enzyme. During optimization, MgCl2 concentrations and thermocycling profiles were adjusted. Accuracy, specificity, inclusivity, and limit of detection studies were performed. Crossing point (Cp), melting temperature (Tm), fluorescent peak and fluorescent background values were compared between the two instruments. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) The agreement in accuracy between the LightCycler® 2.0 and the LightCycler® 480 was 100% for whole blood samples. For historically positive FFPE samples, LightCycler® 2.0 sensitivity and LightCycler® 480 sensitivity were 86% and 100%, respectively. Specificity and inclusivity of the assay were identical between the two instruments. The limit of detection in whole blood was 5-fold lower on the LightCycler® 480 (50 copies/µL) compared to the LightCycler® 2.0 (250 copies/µL). Mean Cp and fluorescent peak intensity values increased by 5.1% and 65-fold, respectively. Conclusion The study demonstrates similar performance and improved limit of detection for the Bartonella FRET hybridization probe RT-PCR assay on the LightCycler® 480 compared to the LightCycler® 2.0.


2014 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Kun Yang ◽  
Yong Yang ◽  
Chun-yang Zhang

AbstractSingle-molecule Förster resonance energy transfer (sm- FRET) has been widely employed to detect biomarkers and to probe the structure and dynamics of biomolecules. By monitoring the biological reaction in a spatio-temporal manner, smFRET can reveal the transient intermediates of biological processes that cannot be obtained by conventional ensemble measurements. This review provides an overview of singlemolecule FRET and its applications in ultrasensitive detection of biomolecules, including the major techniques and the molecular probes used for smFRET as well as the biomedical applications of smFRET. Especially, the combination of sm- FRET with new technologies might expand its applications in clinical diagnosis and biomedical research


2021 ◽  
Vol 36 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
S Fialková ◽  
T Král ◽  
J Kohoutek ◽  
K Franzová ◽  
M Ješeta ◽  
...  

Abstract Study question Can we quantitatively determine concentrations of endocrine disruptors namely bisphenol A and S in seminal fluid? Summary answer We developed selective analytical method to simultaneously screen for the presence of bisphenol A (BPA) and S (BPS). What is known already The male reproductive system involves processes, which may be influenced by the disruption of the endocrine system by chemicals called endocrine disruptors (EDs). There is a growing evidence that EDs such as bisphenol A and S may be responsible for the decline in male reproductive health. To date, the claimed adverse effects on male fertility are largely based on the results from studies assessing the relationship between urinary BPA and BPS concentration and semen parameters. The best evidence of an adverse effect of BPA and BPS directly on spermatozoa could be provided by measuring bisphenols concentration directly in seminal fluid. Study design, size, duration To selectively and quantitatively analyzed bisphenols in any biological matrix advanced analytical tools and selective sample preparation protocols must be employed. In this study we developed targeted analytical method based on liquid chromatography tandem mass (LC-MS/MS) detection to measure bisphenol A and S in seminal fluid samples obtained from IVF clinic. A total of 140 samples were analysed. Participants/materials, setting, methods BPA and BPS was extracted from 140 seminal fluid samples using solvent extraction followed by preconcentration step. Samples were analyzed on Agilent 6495 Triple Quadrupole (Agilent Technologies, Santa Clara, CA) operating in the ESI-negative mode. Two MS/MS transitions were used for quantitative LC-MS/MS analyses. Chromatographic separation was achieved on Waters™ ACQUITY™ UPLC™BEH C18 (100 × 2.1 mm, 1.7 µm) column using gradient elution with a mixture of 0.1mM ammonium fluoride and methanol as mobile phases. Main results and the role of chance We developed selective sample preparation method for detection of BPA and BPS in seminal fluid followed by LC-MS/MS detection. The method validation was performed based on FDA guidelines. Validation criteria included limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantitation (LOQ), accuracy and precision. Due to the lack of the certified reference material the validation criteria of the method were assessed in pool of spiked seminal samples. The accuracy of the LC-MS/MS method was evaluated as a percent recovery of the amount of target analyte added into the sample. Recovery rates were above 80% for both analytes. LOD was 0.04 ng/mL for BPA and 0.01 ng/mL for BPS. LOQ was 0.14 ng/mL and 0.02 ng/mL for BPS. Measured BPA concentration ranged from 0.04 ng/mL to 1.62 ng/mL. For BPS, the concentration ranged from 0.01 ng/mL to 0.47 ng/mL. BPA and BPS were detected in 64% and 81% of samples, respectively. Interestingly, BPA showed lower detection frequency compared to BPS. These results are consistent with other studies performed on urine samples. Limitations, reasons for caution The limitation of the developed method is the time-consuming sample preparation and analysis cost. Wider implications of the findings: These results document for the first time the presence of BPS in seminal fluid. Knowing the concentration of BPA and BPS in seminal fluid is crucial for mitigating the associated health risks and initiating intervention and prevention strategies. Our future work will evaluate the influence of BPS concentration on spermatozoa. Trial registration number AZV NV18–01–00544; CZ.02.2.69/0.0/0.0/19_074/0012727


Optics ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 202-212 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yang Ran ◽  
Peng Xiao ◽  
Yongkang Zhang ◽  
Deming Hu ◽  
Zhiyuan Xu ◽  
...  

Operando and precisely probing aqueous pH is fundamentally demanded, both in chemical and biological areas. Conventional pH probes, subjected to the larger size, are probably unfit for application in some extreme scenarios, such as a trace amount of samples. In this paper, we have further developed the pH sensor that leverages the microfiber Bragg grating with an ultra-compact size down to an order of magnitude of 10−14 m3. Using the electrostatic self-assembly layer-by-layer technique, the functional film consisting of sodium alginate, which harnesses a pH-dependent hygroscopicity, is immobilized on the fiber surface. Consequently, the alteration of aqueous pH could be quantitatively indicated by the wavelength shift of the grating resonance via the refractive index variation of the sensing film due to the water absorption or expulsion. The grating reflections involving fundamental mode and higher order mode exhibit the sensitivities of −72 pm/pH and −265 pm/pH, respectively. In addition, temperature compensation can be facilitated by the recording of the two reflections simultaneously. Furthermore, the modeling and simulation results predict the pivotal parameters of the configuration in sensitivity enhancement. The proposed proof-of-concept enriches the toolbox of pH sensor for catering to the need of detection in some extremely small spaces—for example, the living cells or the bio-tissues.


Endocrinology ◽  
1987 ◽  
Vol 121 (5) ◽  
pp. 1789-1800 ◽  
Author(s):  
NEAL B. WEST ◽  
MARYANNE C. McCLELLAN ◽  
MARK D. STERNFELD ◽  
ROBERT M. BRENNER

2017 ◽  
Vol 242 (17) ◽  
pp. 1690-1700 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alexandria N Young ◽  
Georgette Moyle-Heyrman ◽  
J Julie Kim ◽  
Joanna E Burdette

Microphysiologic systems (MPS), including new organ-on-a-chip technologies, recapitulate tissue microenvironments by employing specially designed tissue or cell culturing techniques and microfluidic flow. Such systems are designed to incorporate physiologic factors that conventional 2D or even 3D systems cannot, such as the multicellular dynamics of a tissue–tissue interface or physical forces like fluid sheer stress. The female reproductive system is a series of interconnected organs that are necessary to produce eggs, support embryo development and female health, and impact the functioning of non-reproductive tissues throughout the body. Despite its importance, the human reproductive tract has received less attention than other organ systems, such as the liver and kidney, in terms of modeling with MPS. In this review, we discuss current gaps in the field and areas for technological advancement through the application of MPS. We explore current MPS research in female reproductive biology, including fertilization, pregnancy, and female reproductive tract diseases, with a focus on their clinical applications. Impact statement This review discusses existing microphysiologic systems technology that may be applied to study of the female reproductive tract, and those currently in development to specifically investigate gametes, fertilization, embryo development, pregnancy, and diseases of the female reproductive tract. We focus on the clinical applicability of these new technologies in fields such as assisted reproductive technologies, drug testing, disease diagnostics, and personalized medicine.


2014 ◽  
Vol 58 (2) ◽  
pp. 153-161 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elaine Maria Frade Costa ◽  
Poli Mara Spritzer ◽  
Alexandre Hohl ◽  
Tânia A. S. S. Bachega

Environmental agencies have identified a growing number of environmental contaminants that have endocrine disrupting activity, and these can become a major public health problem. It is suggested that endocrine disruptors could account for the higher-than-expected increase in the prevalence of some non-communicable diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, thyroid diseases, and some cancers. Several endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs), such as pesticides, bisphenol A, phthalates, dioxins, and phytoestrogens, can interact with the female reproductive system and lead to endocrine disruption. Initially, it was assumed that EDCs exert their effects by binding to hormone receptors and transcription factors, but it is currently known that they may also alter the expression of enzymes involved in the synthesis or catabolism of steroids. Biomonitoring studies have identified these compounds in adults, children, pregnant women, and fetuses. Among the diseases of the female reproductive tract associated with EDCs exposure are the following: precocious puberty, polycystic ovary syndrome, and premature ovarian failure. The different populations of the world are exposed to a great number of chemicals through different routes of infection; despite the various available studies, there is still much doubt regarding the additive effect of a mixture of EDCs with similar mechanisms of action.


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