Construction of interpretable ensemble learning models for predicting bioaccumulation parameters of organic chemicals in fish.

Journal: Journal of hazardous materials
PMID:

Abstract

Accurate prediction of bioaccumulation parameters is essential for assessing exposure, hazards, and risks of chemicals. However, the majority of prediction models on bioaccumulation parameters are individual models based on a single algorithm and lack model interpretation, resulting in unsatisfactory prediction accuracy due to inherent constraints of the algorithm and weak interpretability. Ensemble learning (EL) that combine multiple algorithms, coupled with SHapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP) method, may overcome the limitations. Herein, EL models were constructed for three bioaccumulation parameters using datasets covering 2496 chemicals. The EL models demonstrated superior prediction accuracy compared to both individual models developed in this study and those from previous research, achieving a coefficient of determination of up to 0.861 on the validation sets. Applicability domains were characterized using a structure-activity landscape-based (abbreviated as AD) methodology. The optimal EL models, together with the AD, were successfully used to predict bioaccumulation parameters for 4374 chemicals included in the Inventory of Existing Chemical Substances of China. Model interpretation using the SHAP method offered insight into key features influencing bioaccumulation potential, including hydrophobicity, water solubility, polarizability, ionization potential, weight, and volume of molecules. Overall, the study provides data and models to support the sound management and risk assessment of chemicals.

Authors

  • Minghua Zhu
    1 Department of General Surgery, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China.
  • Zijun Xiao
    Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), Dalian Key Laboratory on Chemicals Risk Control and Pollution Prevention Technology, School of Environmental Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China.
  • Tao Zhang
    Department of Traumatology, Chongqing Emergency Medical Center, Chongqing University Central Hospital, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 40044, People's Republic of China.
  • Guanghua Lu
    Department of Orthopedics, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, P.R.China.