• Current opened records

  • PDMS-based microfluidic device using Human Endothelial Umbilical Vein Cells (HUVECs) for Bisphenol A toxicity testing

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  • A growing interest in the global community has been directed towards toxicological studies of chemical toxicants utilized in plastic production, such as Bishpenol A (BPA) to examine the impact of exposure on human health, the reproductive system and associated organs. Micro-plastics’ reproductive cytotoxicity has proven to be an alarming issue causing metabolic and hormonal imbalances contributing to disruptions in the female reproductive system (FRS) and loss of fertility. BPA an endocrine disturbing chemical (EDC), induces estrogenic activities causing alterations to cellular response reducing functionality, development and proliferative capabilities. This study investigated the impact of low dose exposure of BPA on human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) lines, by examining in vitro models utilizing a single chamber rhomboidal microfluidic device and 24-well plate to determine physio-pathological response of ECs to microparticles. It was concluded that the proliferative state and viability of the cultures decrease as the concentration of BPA increased (10-8, 10-7 and 10-6 M), with continuous exposure possessing increased toxicity. Also, the utilization of a microfluidic device for in vitro models improved homogenous distribution of both cells and microparticles. Exploration of BPA’s disruptive effects on the FRS requires much needed repro-toxicological studies to ensure understanding of its detrimental impact on fertility and overall human health. This review will provide the knowledge for the relevant health care providers, plastic manufacturers and governmental authorities to increase awareness of the chemical’s disruptive nature in an attempt to reduce future exposure. To that end, future epidemiological studies should focus on designing complex integrated culture systems to better approximate in vivo mechanisms and stimuli response on both cellular and organ-level and assess its relation to human reproductive health. 
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