Metabolomics analysis reveals lipid metabolism disorders caused by triphenyltin via upregulation of PPARγ pathway

Triphenyltin (TPT), a widely utilized organotin compound, serves marine, agricultural, and industrial applications. TPT is commonly found in estuaries and coastal regions. However, recent studies on environmental pollution have identified TPT as a pollutant due to its pronounced pollutant characteristics and potential implications for human health. Research from the past has demonstrated that TPT can cause issues with lipid metabolism. However, the specific metabolites affected and the involvement of the PPAR pathway remain unknown. Herein, male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats received oral administration of TPT at daily doses of 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/kg for a period of 28 days. To investigate the abnormal metabolism in TPT-exposed rats, liver samples were analyzed using LC-MS/MS non-targeted metabolomics. Validated in vitro experiments were also performed using BRL-3A cells. This study suggests that exposure to TPT causes liver injury, increases lipid accumulation, and alters PPARγ expression levels. The findings highlight the need for restrictions on its use and further investigation of its toxic effects on other organs and systems to better assess its potential impact on human health.