Recent updates on phthalate exposure and human health: a special focus on liver toxicity and stem cell regeneration

Abstract

Phthalates have been blended in various compositions as plasticizers worldwide for a variety of purposes. Consequently, humans are exposed to a wide spectrum of phthalates that needs to be researched and understood correctly. The goal of this review is to focus on phthalate's internal exposure pathways and possible role of human digestion on liver toxicity. In addition, special focus was made on stem cell therapy in reverting liver toxicity. The known entry of higher molecular weight phthalates is through ingestion while inhalation and dermal pathways are for lower molecular weight phthalates. In human body, certain phthalates are digested through phase 1 (hydrolysis, oxidation) and phase 2 (conjugation) metabolic processes. The phthalates that are made bioavailable through digestion enter the blood stream and reach the liver for further detoxification, and these are excreted via urine and/or feces. Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a compound well studied involving human metabolism. Liver plays a pivotal role in humans for detoxification of pollutants. Thus, continuous exposure to phthalates in humans may lead to inhibition of liver detoxifying enzymes and may result in liver dysfunction. The potential of stem cell therapy addressed herewith will revert liver dysfunction and lead to restoration of liver function properly.

Structure-Dependent Effects of Phthalates on Intercellular and Intracellular Communication in Liver Oval Cells

“…Human phthalate exposures were associated with the increased risks of metabolic disorders, including obesity, diabetes, insulin resistance, and deteriorated liver function [ 53 , 54 , 55 ]. Chronic exposures can lead to the continuous accumulation and intensive detoxification of phthalates in the liver [ 56 ]. Thus, liver cells are likely to be exposed to the highest concentration of phthalates in the body [ 57 ], and it is crucial to understand the liver toxicity of phthalates.…”

Dibutyl phthalate-induced activation of ROS and ERK1/2 causes hepatic and renal damage in Kunming mice

“…5 Epidemiological data suggest that DBP is responsible for adverse hepatic effects. 6,7 Animal studies have also shown that DBP is a reproductive and developmental toxin. 8 Although DBP does not accumulate in any organ shortly after administration, over the long term, it will be found primarily in the liver and kidney.…”

Study on the indoor exposure factors of phthalates using bio-monitoring data

“…17, No. 4 (December 2018) Trasande et al, 2013;Kay et al, 2014;Choi et al, 2017;Praveena et al, 2018). 따라서 본 연구에서는 생체시료 중 농도를 이용하여 프탈레이트 노출에 대한 주요 영향요인을 분석하고, 인 체 노출 시나리오를 정립하여 일일섭취노출량 및 위해 수준을 평가하고자 하였다.…”