Walking Poster Tour Presentations 10: Toxicology & Environmental Health
Tracks
Track 5
| Wednesday, September 24, 2025 |
| 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM |
| Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel - Grand Ballroom II |
Speaker
Assist Prof Karunrat Tewthanom
Assist. Prof.
Silpakorn University
Cost-Effectiveness of TDM and Personalized Interventions in Psychiatric Care: A Comprehensive Review"
Abstract
Background: The Cost-effectiveness of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) in Psychiatric care is questionable
Aims: To review the cost-effectiveness of TDM in psychiatric care.
Methods: This review synthesizes findings from 12 studies exploring the cost-effectiveness of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) and related interventions in psychiatric care by using the Pubmed database 2000-2025.
Results: The studies collectively highlight the economic and clinical benefits of TDM and other tailored strategies for managing mental health conditions. Research on clozapine monitoring emphasizes its role in reducing adverse effects and healthcare costs for schizophrenia. Similarly, TDM of citalopram and atypical antipsychotics demonstrates improved therapeutic outcomes and economic efficiency. Studies on Alzheimer’s disease treatments, including cholinesterase inhibitors and the rivastigmine transdermal patch, underscore the cost-effectiveness of regionally tailored practices. Interventions like dementia care management and self-management education programs for epilepsy showcase the dual advantages of enhanced clinical outcomes and cost savings. Additionally, pharmaceutical care models in psychiatric hospitals and contingency management programs for heroin abstinence provide evidence for reducing healthcare costs while improving patient care. Research comparing long-acting and monthly formulations of antipsychotics, such as paliperidone palmitate, further supports the utility of cost-effective formulations in improving adherence and outcomes.
Conclusion: These findings collectively emphasize the importance of personalized, cost-effective strategies in optimizing psychiatric care and resource utilization.
Keywords: Cost-effectiveness, Comprehensive review, TDM in Psychiatric medications,
Biography
An assistant professor in pharmaceutical care, the PhD in Clinical Pharmacy Program director. Faculty of Pharmacy, Silpakorn University, Thailand. The member of IATDMCT.
Mrs Karina Izdebska
Bioanalytic
Trace Analysis of Alpha-Amanitin in Human Urine: Implications for Poisoning Detection.
Abstract
Background: Alpha-amanitin, a toxin from Amanita fungi, causes severe liver damage. Early detection improves survival rates, however detection in urine is challenging due to matrix variability. Accurate identification and quantification at low concentrations requires LC-MS.
Aims: This study focuses on the development of a reproducible and sensitive method for detecting alpha-amanitin in human urine samples.
Methods: Sample preparation was performed using solid-phase extraction (SPE) with DAU sorbent (200 mg/10 mL, UCT Inc). Urine sample was diluted with phosphate buffer (pH 6.0) before loading onto the SPE column, which was conditioned with methanol, water, and phosphate buffer. After sample application, the matrix was washed with water, 0.1% acetic acid, and methylene chloride-methanol. Alpha-amanitin was eluted with methanol, evaporated under nitrogen, and reconstituted in an injection-ready solvent. Data acquisition was done using a QTRAP 6500+ mass spectrometer (SCIEX) with LC-40XR (Shimadzu), and processed with SciexOS software. LC-MS/MS analysis was performed in positive ionization MRM mode.
Results: The development of a sensitive method development was challenged by the lack of stable isotope-labeled analogs and suitable internal standards. The focus was placed on optimizing the solid-phase extraction (SPE) procedure to achieve sensitivity, specificity, linearity, and reproducibility without internal standards. The method met performance criteria with an LLOQ below 0.25 ng/ml, linearity from 0.25–100 ng/ml (R = 0.998), reproducibility below 5% RSD, and no interference at the analyte’s retention time.
Conclusion: Preliminary data confirm the method's effectiveness in detecting alpha-amanitin, surpassing ELISA limitations.
Key Words: Alpha-amanitin, Poisoning detection, LC-MS.
Aims: This study focuses on the development of a reproducible and sensitive method for detecting alpha-amanitin in human urine samples.
Methods: Sample preparation was performed using solid-phase extraction (SPE) with DAU sorbent (200 mg/10 mL, UCT Inc). Urine sample was diluted with phosphate buffer (pH 6.0) before loading onto the SPE column, which was conditioned with methanol, water, and phosphate buffer. After sample application, the matrix was washed with water, 0.1% acetic acid, and methylene chloride-methanol. Alpha-amanitin was eluted with methanol, evaporated under nitrogen, and reconstituted in an injection-ready solvent. Data acquisition was done using a QTRAP 6500+ mass spectrometer (SCIEX) with LC-40XR (Shimadzu), and processed with SciexOS software. LC-MS/MS analysis was performed in positive ionization MRM mode.
Results: The development of a sensitive method development was challenged by the lack of stable isotope-labeled analogs and suitable internal standards. The focus was placed on optimizing the solid-phase extraction (SPE) procedure to achieve sensitivity, specificity, linearity, and reproducibility without internal standards. The method met performance criteria with an LLOQ below 0.25 ng/ml, linearity from 0.25–100 ng/ml (R = 0.998), reproducibility below 5% RSD, and no interference at the analyte’s retention time.
Conclusion: Preliminary data confirm the method's effectiveness in detecting alpha-amanitin, surpassing ELISA limitations.
Key Words: Alpha-amanitin, Poisoning detection, LC-MS.
Biography
n/a
Prof Vanessa Steenkamp
University Of Pretoria
Boerhavia diffusa extract exhibits monoamine oxidase inhibition but lacks neuroprotective effects
Abstract
Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) involves progressive dopaminergic cell loss in the substantia nigra with associated oxidative stress. Boerhavia diffusa is consumed as a tea for its general health benefits.
Aim:This study aimed to assess the neuroprotective potential and safety profile of a proprietary Boerhavia diffusa extract in cellular (SH-SY5Y) and larval zebrafish models of PD.
Methods: The proprietary extract was assessed for cytotoxicity and neuroprotection against 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced damage in neuroblastoma cells. The Amplex® Red Monoamine Oxidase Assay Kit was used to determine monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity. Antioxidant activity was measured using the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. Behavioural analysis and determination of protein expression levels of the neurodegeneration markers, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and neuronal differentiation 1 (neuroD1), were employed to evaluate neuroprotective potential of the extract in zebrafish.
Results: The extract exhibited cytotoxicity, without apparent protection from 6-OHDA. Low antioxidant activity was observed. All extract concentrations exhibited MAO inhibition; ≥80%, ≥79% and ≥55% for MAO-A, MAO-B and non-specific inhibition, respectively. Zebrafish larvae exposed to 6-OHDA, exhibited significant (p<0.001) hypo-locomotion. Treatment with the extract did not reinstate 6-OHDA-induced decreases in brain TH or NeuroD1 protein expression. Independent of 6-OHDA, significant toxicity (lack of swim bladder, edema) was observed for 2.5, 5 and 10 µg/mL of the extract.
Conclusion: The plant extract did not exhibit benefit in the context of PD. Future research should focus on subjecting isolated compounds to the battery of tests.
Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, cytotoxicity, neuroprotection, zebrafish, SH-SY5Y cells
Aim:This study aimed to assess the neuroprotective potential and safety profile of a proprietary Boerhavia diffusa extract in cellular (SH-SY5Y) and larval zebrafish models of PD.
Methods: The proprietary extract was assessed for cytotoxicity and neuroprotection against 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced damage in neuroblastoma cells. The Amplex® Red Monoamine Oxidase Assay Kit was used to determine monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity. Antioxidant activity was measured using the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. Behavioural analysis and determination of protein expression levels of the neurodegeneration markers, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and neuronal differentiation 1 (neuroD1), were employed to evaluate neuroprotective potential of the extract in zebrafish.
Results: The extract exhibited cytotoxicity, without apparent protection from 6-OHDA. Low antioxidant activity was observed. All extract concentrations exhibited MAO inhibition; ≥80%, ≥79% and ≥55% for MAO-A, MAO-B and non-specific inhibition, respectively. Zebrafish larvae exposed to 6-OHDA, exhibited significant (p<0.001) hypo-locomotion. Treatment with the extract did not reinstate 6-OHDA-induced decreases in brain TH or NeuroD1 protein expression. Independent of 6-OHDA, significant toxicity (lack of swim bladder, edema) was observed for 2.5, 5 and 10 µg/mL of the extract.
Conclusion: The plant extract did not exhibit benefit in the context of PD. Future research should focus on subjecting isolated compounds to the battery of tests.
Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, cytotoxicity, neuroprotection, zebrafish, SH-SY5Y cells
Biography
Professor Vanessa Steenkamp is the Deputy Dean of Teaching & Learning and Professor in Pharmacology in the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria. She has made groundbreaking strides in her career, which has had a significant impact in the field of pharmacology, both as a member of committees, through her participation and engagement with students, scientists and the community and her research contributions. She specializes in researching traditional herbal medicine and toxicology, with her focus being drug-development for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Not only is her research comprehensive and multifaceted, but innovative, and incorporates the use of advanced technology. Her recognition both locally and internationally is confirmed by her multiple invitations as plenary/guest speaker, awards received and honorary positions. She has successfully supervised >70 postgraduate students to completion and is actively involved in mentoring emerging scientists.
Prof Yasuo Tsutsumi
Professor
Graduate School Of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University
Establishment and Safety Assessments of Micro/Nanoplastic Libraries 5: Focus on Polyvinyl Chloride
Abstract
Background
As highlighted in the SDGs, plastic waste leakage is a critical issue, with concerns over microplastics (MPs, <5 mm) and nanoplastics (NPs, <1 µm) affecting human health. These MPs/NPs (MNPs) have been detected in human tissues such as lung, blood, and placenta, indicating inevitable exposure. Environmental MNPs vary in polymer type, size, shape, and surface characteristics, yet most safety assessments rely on spherical particles with smooth surface, which do not reflect real conditions. To address this, we developed MNPs library considering environmental physicochemical properties.
Aims
This study aimed to characterize our MNPs library including PE, PS, PP, PVC, and PET as model polymers and assess its similarity to environmental samples. Additionally, we tried to evaluate the cellular response especially focusing on Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) among MNPs library samples.
Methods
Spherical, fragmented, fiber and surface-oxidized MNPs were prepared to mimic environmental conditions. ATR-IR analysis and SEM confirmed their properties. MTT assay was used to measure cell viability.
Results
Surface oxidation was induced via vacuum UV exposure (172 nm), forming hydroxy and carbonyl groups. NPs were produced using a precipitation-based method referring to previous study. Our MNPs exhibited morphology and surface characteristics similar to environmental samples. Additionally, surface oxidized PVC-MNPs exhibited cytotoxicity compared to non-degraded PVC-MNPs.
Conclusions
We developed MNPs library considering environmental condition. This library facilitates comprehensive safety evaluations, including oral and inhalation exposure tests, and is available for collaboration. For inquiries, please contact Yuya Haga at haga-y@phs.osaka-u.ac.jp.
Keywords
Microplastics, Nanoplastics, Environment relevance, Physicochemical properties, Cytotoxicity, Polyvinyl Chloride
As highlighted in the SDGs, plastic waste leakage is a critical issue, with concerns over microplastics (MPs, <5 mm) and nanoplastics (NPs, <1 µm) affecting human health. These MPs/NPs (MNPs) have been detected in human tissues such as lung, blood, and placenta, indicating inevitable exposure. Environmental MNPs vary in polymer type, size, shape, and surface characteristics, yet most safety assessments rely on spherical particles with smooth surface, which do not reflect real conditions. To address this, we developed MNPs library considering environmental physicochemical properties.
Aims
This study aimed to characterize our MNPs library including PE, PS, PP, PVC, and PET as model polymers and assess its similarity to environmental samples. Additionally, we tried to evaluate the cellular response especially focusing on Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) among MNPs library samples.
Methods
Spherical, fragmented, fiber and surface-oxidized MNPs were prepared to mimic environmental conditions. ATR-IR analysis and SEM confirmed their properties. MTT assay was used to measure cell viability.
Results
Surface oxidation was induced via vacuum UV exposure (172 nm), forming hydroxy and carbonyl groups. NPs were produced using a precipitation-based method referring to previous study. Our MNPs exhibited morphology and surface characteristics similar to environmental samples. Additionally, surface oxidized PVC-MNPs exhibited cytotoxicity compared to non-degraded PVC-MNPs.
Conclusions
We developed MNPs library considering environmental condition. This library facilitates comprehensive safety evaluations, including oral and inhalation exposure tests, and is available for collaboration. For inquiries, please contact Yuya Haga at haga-y@phs.osaka-u.ac.jp.
Keywords
Microplastics, Nanoplastics, Environment relevance, Physicochemical properties, Cytotoxicity, Polyvinyl Chloride
Biography
Dr. Yasuo TSUTSUMI is a professor at the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Japan. Prof. Tsutsumi specializes in toxicology and public health in the field of pharmaceutical sciences. Especially, he interested in the toxicity and safety of micro- and nanoparticles.
Prof. Tsutsumi received a B.S. and M.S., Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences from Osaka University, Japan. He has been a state licensed pharmacist. He began work at Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University in the Laboratory of Pharmaceutics in 1994. Dr. Tsutsumi was promoted to professor in 2008 at Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University in the Laboratory of Toxicology and Safety Science.
Dr Lv Yayao
Tianjin First Center Hospital
Profiles of bacterial communities and antibiotic resistance genes in the Lahasa River
Abstract
Background: There have been few research reports on the analysis of bacterial communities and the distribution characteristics of ARGs in the Lhasa River.
Aims: To study the distribution characteristics of the resident bacterial communities and the pollution status of ARGs in the Lhasa River, and to provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and control of drinking water safety for the regional population.
Methods: Samples were collected from 5 sampling points in the Lhasa River Basin, and the distribution characteristics of bacterial communities were analyzed by 16sRNA sequencing technology. The contents of 19 kinds of ARGs were detected and analyzed by fluorescence quantitative PCR technology. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS 22.0.
Results: Proteobacteria was the predominant resident bacterial phyla, among which Acinetobacter, Aeromonas and Pseudomonas were the three dominant genera. All 19 kinds of ARGs were detected at a relatively high level. Among them, the concentration of aadA was the highest. Among the 8 kinds of last resort antibiotic resistance genes (LARGs), the concentration of blaOXA-48 was the highest. Overall, concentrations of LARGs were lower than those of "conventional" ARGs, and there was a statistically significant difference between the two.
Conclusion: The results of this study expand people's understanding of the distribution of bacterial communities and ARGs in the water of the Lhasa River. Given the potentially serious adverse effects of ARGs, especially LARGs, the pollution of ARGs in the Lhasa River should be given due attention.
Key words: The Lhasa River; Bacterial community; Antibiotic resistance genes
Aims: To study the distribution characteristics of the resident bacterial communities and the pollution status of ARGs in the Lhasa River, and to provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and control of drinking water safety for the regional population.
Methods: Samples were collected from 5 sampling points in the Lhasa River Basin, and the distribution characteristics of bacterial communities were analyzed by 16sRNA sequencing technology. The contents of 19 kinds of ARGs were detected and analyzed by fluorescence quantitative PCR technology. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS 22.0.
Results: Proteobacteria was the predominant resident bacterial phyla, among which Acinetobacter, Aeromonas and Pseudomonas were the three dominant genera. All 19 kinds of ARGs were detected at a relatively high level. Among them, the concentration of aadA was the highest. Among the 8 kinds of last resort antibiotic resistance genes (LARGs), the concentration of blaOXA-48 was the highest. Overall, concentrations of LARGs were lower than those of "conventional" ARGs, and there was a statistically significant difference between the two.
Conclusion: The results of this study expand people's understanding of the distribution of bacterial communities and ARGs in the water of the Lhasa River. Given the potentially serious adverse effects of ARGs, especially LARGs, the pollution of ARGs in the Lhasa River should be given due attention.
Key words: The Lhasa River; Bacterial community; Antibiotic resistance genes
Biography
Lv yayao is a chief pharmacist at Tianjin First Central Hospital, specializing in Therapeutic Drug Monitoring. Focusing on establishing analytical methods and conducting drug concentration monitoring using LC-MS/MS.
Session chair
David Kinniburgh
Lab Director
ACFT, University Of Calgary
