Effects of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, a widely used peroxisome proliferator and plasticizer, on cell growth in the human keratinocyte cell line NCTC 2544.

Phthalate esters are a widely used class of water-insoluble organic chemicals. The adverse effects of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) were chiefly studied in animals, while their potential toxicity to humans has not been properly evaluated. It was hypothesized that the effect of DEHP on human cells depends on the concentration, and this study examined the effects of different concentrations of DEHP on cell growth in cultured human keratinocytes NCTC 2544, together with the possible involvement of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) in mediating the effects. After exposure to DEHP, the number of NCTC 2544 cells in the monolayer decreased in a concentration-dependent and time-dependent manner, whereas the cells that were detached from the monolayer increased, and died via necrosis. The decrease of cell growth was confirmed by the inhibition of pErk1, pErk2, and changes in the c-myc protein content. With regard to PPARs, the PPARbeta protein content increased, whereas PPARalpha decreased. To demonstrate the involvement of PPARbeta in inhibiting cell growth, the use of an antisense oligonucleotide against this receptor revealed the prevention of DEHP-induced cell growth inhibition. In addition, the treatment of keratinocytes with a specific ligand of PPARbeta (L165041) showed a concentration-dependent inhibition of cell growth, as with DEHP. In conclusion, the effect of DEHP on human keratinocytes is concentration dependent, and this effect is mediated via PPARs.