Transcriptome Changes and Potential Immunotoxicity Analysis in RAW264.7 Macrophages Caused by Bisphenol F

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Toxicology
• Immunology

Background:

• Bisphenol F (BPF) is a common BPA substitute found in consumer goods.
• BPF and BPA share structural similarities, suggesting potential comparable toxic effects.
• Limited data exists on BPF's immunotoxicity and its effects on the immune system.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the in vitro toxicity of BPF on RAW264.7 macrophages.
• To assess BPF's impact on cell viability, apoptosis, and gene expression.
• To understand the immunotoxicological risks associated with BPF exposure.

Main Methods:

• RAW264.7 macrophages were exposed to varying BPF concentrations (5-200 μM).
• Cell viability and apoptosis assays were performed.
• Whole-transcriptome sequencing and qRT-PCR were used to analyze gene expression profiles.

Main Results:

• High BPF concentrations significantly reduced macrophage survival rates.
• Medium BPF concentrations induced apoptosis despite no apparent impact on cell activity.
• BPF exposure altered the expression of 121 upregulated and 82 downregulated genes.
• Affected gene functions included cell cycle, phagosome, lysosome, and antigen processing.

Conclusions:

• BPF exhibits dose-dependent toxicity towards macrophages, including apoptosis induction.
• BPF exposure significantly impacts immune cell function through gene expression alterations.
• Findings highlight BPF's immunotoxicity, aiding in hazard identification for bisphenol compounds.