Pollution and human biology

Abstract

Industrial pollution is a relatively new component of the environment of humans and may constitute biological challenges to human adaptation. Extensive laboratory research shows that many pollutants are capable of modifying physiological systems in mammals. Studies of human populations provide substantial evidence that some pollutants can affect biological outcomes of traditional interest to human biologists (e.g. mortality, morbidity, growth, reproduction). Air pollution has been linked to increases in mortality and morbidity, and specific pollutants such as lead and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have been associated with decreases in measures of sperm quality, changes in the character of menses, increased obesity and diabetes, and altered rates of sexual maturation, as well as other effects. However, the evidence is far from homogeneous. Nevertheless, to achieve the comprehensive and holistic approach characteristic of human biological research, investigators should include measures of pollutant exposure in their multicausal models.

Sunlight mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles using redox phytoprotein and their application in catalysis and colorimetric mercury sensing

“…Organic dyes are widely used in industries, especially textile industries uses organic dyes for coloring cotton, wool, silk and acrylic fibers [38]. These industries either wittingly or accidentally release substantial quantity of organic dyes into the environment, which possess a serious threat to the environment and public health [39]. The procedures available to remove these pollutants are expensive and time consuming [40].…”

Androgen Receptor Genotype in Humans and Susceptibility to Endocrine Disruptors

“…These chemicals include drugs, natural products, as well as manufactured chemicals. Several of these compounds are ubiquitous in the environment, resulting in daily exposure through ingestion, inhalation and dermal contact as well as through occupational exposure in industrial or agricultural contexts [2]. Foetuses are exposed by direct transfer across the placenta and infants through lactation.…”

“…POPs are often halogenated and have low water solubility but high lipid solubility, leading to their bioaccumulation in fatty tissues [2]. They are semi-volatile and can travel long distances in the atmosphere before being deposited.…”

“…They are semi-volatile and can travel long distances in the atmosphere before being deposited. POPs noted for their persistence and bioaccumulative characteristics include many of the first generation organochlorine insecticides, such as dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane p,p ′-DDT and chlordane, and industrial chemical products including polychlorinated biphenyls, dibenzo- p -dioxins (dioxins) and dibenzo- p -furans (furans) [2,8]. Many of these compounds have been or continue to be used in large quantities.…”

The anti-obesogenic effects of nitric oxide.

“…For example, the human environment is fraught with both chemical and structural "obesogens." These include but are not limited to: pollutants that promote adiposity and insulin resistance [12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21] ; lack of structural features of the built environment that promote an active lifestyle, such as easy access to parks, sidewalks, and bike paths [22][23][24] ; and the night/day cycles in the natural environment of the individual, which can be altered in those having certain occupations [25][26][27] . Moreover, the genetic makeup of individuals shows strong associations with the predisposition to become obese [28][29][30] .…”