Cytogenotoxic Effects and Reproductive Abnormalities Induced by e-Waste Contaminated Underground Water in Mice

Abstract

Indiscriminate disposal of electronic wastes (e-wastes) in Nigeria is on the increase. The release of hazardous substances from these wastes may have harmful consequences on the environment and public health. This study was designed to investigate the potential in vivo genetic and reproductive toxicity of e-waste contaminated underground (well) waters obtained from Alaba International and Computer Village electronic markets in Lagos, Nigeria, using the murine micronucleus (MN), sperm morphology and sperm count assays. The animals were exposed orally via free drinking of the water for one to five weeks. MN analysis showed a concentration-dependent induction of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes across the treatment groups. Assessment of sperm shape showed a significant increase in sperm abnormalities with significant decrease in mean sperm count in treated groups. The presence of Pb, Cu, Cr, and Cd in the tested samples is believed to contribute significantly to these observations. The results are indications that e-waste contaminated well water is capable of inducing somatic and germ mutation in living cells, and should be of public health concern in countries with risk of e-waste exposure.