Comparative study of CYP2B1/2 induction and the transport of bilirubin and taurocholate in rat hepatocyte-mono- and hepatocyte-Kupffer cell co-cultures

Introduction Hepatocyte-Kupffer cell (KC) co-cultures represent a promising approach for in vitro modeling of complex interactions between parenchymal and non-parenchymal cells in the liver, responsible for drug-induced liver injury (DILI). In this study we aimed to compare hepatocyte monocultures with hepatocyte-KC co-cultures regarding some basic liver functions associated with the chemical defense system. These pathways involve transporters and enzymes the function of which is highly sensitive towards hepatotoxic events. Methods CYP2B1/2 induction and the biliary and sinusoidal elimination of bilirubin (B) and taurocholate (TC) were studied in rat hepatocyte sandwich cultures compared with rat hepatocyte-KC sandwich co-cultures of 1:0, 6:1, 2:1 and 1:1 cell combinations representing the physiologic and pathologic conditions of the liver. Results KCs decreased phenobarbital inducibility of CYP2B1/2 in a cell ratio dependent manner and activation of KCs by lipopolisacharide (LPS) amplified this effect. Similarly, KCs decreased the transport of B and its glucuronides (BG) in both sinusoidal and canalicular directions resulting in its intracellular accumulation. In contrast, the uptake and the efflux of TC were greater in the co-cultures than in the hepatocyte monocultures. Immuno-labelling of sodium-dependent taurocholate transporter (Ntcp) revealed increased expression of the transporter in the presence of KCs. Discussion Here we presented that KCs have a direct impact on some hepatocyte functions suggesting that the co-culture model may be more suitable for drug related hepatotoxicity studies than hepatocyte monocultures. Abbreviations B, bilirubin; Bsep, bile salt export pump; CYP, cytochrome P-450; GdCl3, gadolinium(III) chloride; H/KC, hepatocyte-Kupffer-cell co-culture; HBSS, Hanks' balanced salt solution; HPLC, high-performance liquid chromatography; KC, Kupffer-cell; LPS, lipopolisacharide; Mrp, multidrug resistance-associated protein; Ntcp, sodium-dependent taurocholate transporter; PB, phenobarbital; PBS, phosphate-buffered saline; PTX, pentoxyphylline; TC, taurocholat

Freshwater systems and ecosystem services: challenges and chances for crossfertilization of disciplines

Freshwater ecosystems are among the most threatened in the world, while providing numerous essential ecosystem services (ES) to humans. Despite their importance, research on freshwater ecosystem services is limited. Here, we examine how freshwater studies could help to advance ES research and vice versa. We summarize major knowledge gaps and suggest solutions focusing on science and policy in Europe. We found several features that are unique to freshwater ecosystems, but often disregarded in ES assessments. Insufficient transfer of knowledge towards stakeholders is also problematic. Knowledge transfer and implementation seems to be less effective towards South-east Europe. Focusing on the strengths of freshwater research regarding connectivity, across borders, involving multiple actors can help to improve ES research towards a more dynamic, landscape-level approach, which we believe can boost the implementation of the ES concept in freshwater policies. Bridging these gaps can contribute to achieve the ambitious targets of the EU’s Green Deal

A global horizon scan of the future impacts of robotics and autonomous systems on urban ecosystems

Technology is transforming societies worldwide. A major innovation is the emergence of robotics and autonomous systems (RAS), which have the potential to revolutionize cities for both people and nature. Nonetheless, the opportunities and challenges associated with RAS for urban ecosystems have yet to be considered systematically. Here, we report the findings of an online horizon scan involving 170 expert participants from 35 countries. We conclude that RAS are likely to transform land use, transport systems and human–nature interactions. The prioritized opportunities were primarily centred on the deployment of RAS for the monitoring and management of biodiversity and ecosystems. Fewer challenges were prioritized. Those that were emphasized concerns surrounding waste from unrecovered RAS, and the quality and interpretation of RAS-collected data. Although the future impacts of RAS for urban ecosystems are difficult to predict, examining potentially important developments early is essential if we are to avoid detrimental consequences but fully realize the benefits

A global horizon scan of the future impacts of robotics and autonomous systems on urban ecosystems

Technology is transforming societies worldwide. A major innovation is the emergence of robotics and autonomous systems (RAS), which have the potential to revolutionize cities for both people and nature. Nonetheless, the opportunities and challenges associated with RAS for urban ecosystems have yet to be considered systematically. Here, we report the findings of an online horizon scan involving 170 expert participants from 35 countries. We conclude that RAS are likely to transform land use, transport systems and human–nature interactions. The prioritized opportunities were primarily centred on the deployment of RAS for the monitoring and management of biodiversity and ecosystems. Fewer challenges were prioritized. Those that were emphasized concerns surrounding waste from unrecovered RAS, and the quality and interpretation of RAS-collected data. Although the future impacts of RAS for urban ecosystems are difficult to predict, examining potentially important developments early is essential if we are to avoid detrimental consequences but fully realize the benefits

ASSESSMENT OF URBAN DEVELOPMENT IMPACT ON LIMNOLOGICAL SYSTEMS

The aim of this study is to evaluate the human impact, in terms of organic matter distribution and chlorophyll found in representative lakes from Bucharest city. The water quality of these lakes was evaluated using fluorescence spectroscopy together with conductivity and pH. Fluorescence data, in the form tryptophan/humic acid ratio, was used to evaluate the humification degree and to evidence the level of microbial contaminations of water lakes. Graphical representation of fluorescence ratio, Chl-a intensity, conductivity and pH was used to divide the analyzed samples in two groups. A quality score of 0 or 1 was introduced to delimitate between good or poor water quality using threshold values. The use of quality scores was helpful in realisation of a water quality map with Bucharest’s lakes, indicating the limnological systems’ ecological state. The results showed that the analysis of chromophoric organic matter can be useful in identifying the negative human influence on urban lakes