Work

Exploring plasticisers-osteoporosis links and mechanisms: a cohort and network toxicology study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Plasticisers, widely present in daily life, have been linked to osteoporosis (OP), though the precise mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: This study examined the association between mono (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) and OP using multivariate logistic regression based on NHANES data. Network toxicology identified key targets and pathways involved in MEHP-induced OP. Molecular docking and dynamics simulations validated the stability of MEHP-target interactions. The effects of MEHP on osteogenic differentiation were further assessed in mouse bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs). Results: All logistic regression models confirmed a significant positive correlation between MEHP levels and OP. Network toxicology analysis identified CTSD, SOAT1, and VCP as key targets and the apoptosis pathway as a key mechanism in MEHP-induced OP. Molecular simulations demonstrated stable MEHP binding to these targets. Cellular experiments revealed that MEHP significantly inhibited BMSC osteogenesis by downregulating CTSD and VCP, while SOAT1 showed a weaker correlation. Conclusion: MEHP exposure is positively associated with OP risk, with CTSD, VCP, and the apoptosis pathway potentially playing key roles in impairing BMSC osteogenesis.

Source: Frontiers in Toxicology

DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2025.1617663

Authors: Xingyao Yang, Xin Wang, Shifu Bao, Zhengjiang Li, Shuxing Xing, Zhangzhen Du

Institutions: Chengdu Fifth People's Hospital, North Sichuan Medical University, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Effects and risks of endocrine disrupting chemicals

Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,077