Workshop on perinatal exposure to dioxin-like compounds. V. Immunologic effects.

Abstract

The immune system comprises a highly integrated network of multiple tissues and cell types with complicated interactions and effects. It is modulated by the endocrine and nervous systems and there is growing realization of its multifunctionality. The session focusing on immunologic effects of dioxin and related compounds following prenatal exposure involved a review of the immunotoxic effects that have been reported for polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons (PHAHs), a discussion of species differences in responses, and development of the immune system, and data from two ongoing epidemiological studies comparing the immune status of children exposed to higher-than-average concentrations of PHAHs both prenatally and lactationally. -Environ Health Perspect 103(Suppl 2): 157-160 (1995)

Chemical and biological pollution contribute to the immunological profiles of free-ranging harbor seals

“…The immunotoxic effects of PCBs have been mechanistically documented in a number of laboratory studies and are most pronounced when exposure takes place early in life (prenatal, postnatal, or both periods) [7]. Effects on the adaptive immune system include reduced thymus and spleen weights; changes in T‐lymphocyte subsets, number, and functionality; decreased antibody responses of B lymphocytes; and suppression of immunization‐induced proliferation of lymphocytes [8–11].…”

Immunologic and other biological parameters as a function of smoking status and of residence in areas differing in terms of air pollution

“…Immunologic parameters are among the most sensitive in detecting health-damaging effects of polluting agents (Dewailly et al 1993, Smoger et al 1993, Birnbaum 1995, Kerkvliet 1995, Hadnagy et al 1996, Blaylock et al 1995, Voccia et al 1999. Serum CEA level, influenced by several factors (Herbeth and Bargel 1980), was observed to be increased in association with smoking and with environmental or occupational exposure (see Discussion) and could be associated with an increased risk of cancer (Pluygers et al 1986).…”

Does Disruption of Immune and Endocrine Systems by Environmental Toxins Contribute to Development of Endometriosis?

“…The biological activity of chemical toxins on human health can be classified into two models: the organizational model refers to chemical exposure of the embryo/fetus at very early stages of development, often leading to structural changes in tissues and /or organs 4 ; and the activational model denotes activation of specific genes in adult tissues following acute or chronic exposure to environmental toxins. 5 ' 6 Furthermore, these toxins usually affect specific organs or systems within the exposed individual or population. For example, chemical toxins that exert their biological effect on the immune system are referred to as immune toxins, while those affecting the endocrine system are described as endocrine disruptors.…”

“…26 A similar disruption of normal uterine growth control has been demonstrated in reptiles and mammals exposed to TCDD and DLCs during the perinatal period. 6 Embryonic cells exhibit receptors for hormones not yet synthesized by the embryo, perhaps contributing to increased sensitivity to environmental endocrine disruptors during development. 27 As endocrine disruptors can modulate aspects of immune function, environmental agents with stejroid-like activity can also affect the immune system of the embryo without adversely affecting the exposed adult.…”