Glutathione, glutathione S-transferase, and glutathione conjugates, complementary markers of oxidative stress in aquatic biota

Effects of copper nanoparticles synthesized from the entomopathogen Metarhizium robertsii against the dengue vector Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894)

Aedes albopictus, known as the Asian tiger mosquito, is a significant vector for dengue fever, chikungunya, zika virus, yellow fever. Current control methods rely on chemical insecticides, which face challenges such as resistance, environmental harm, and impact on non-target species Eudrilus eugeniae and Artemia salina. This study evaluates the toxic effects of biogenic copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) synthesized using Metarhizium robertsii intracellular extract obtained from our previous research. The CuNPs were tested against A. albopictus and non-target species at 24 and 48 hours post-treatment. Results demonstrated that entomopathogenic fungi-derived CuNPs exhibited potent mosquitocidal activity, resulting in 97.33% mortality in larvae, 93.33% in pupae, and 74.66% in adults at 48 hours post-treatment. The CuNPs derived from M. robertsii showed lower LC50 values of 74.873 mg/L in larvae, 76.101 mg/L in pupae, and 136.645 mg/L in adults at 48 hours post-treatment. Additionally, 12 hours post-treatment, catalase (an antioxidant enzyme) activity decreased 1.5-fold in a dose-dependent manner, while glutathione S-transferase (a detoxification enzyme) activity increased 7.8-fold. CuNPs demonstrated lower toxicity to non-target species, with 24% mortality in A. salina and 24.44% mortality in E. eugeniae at 24 hours post-treatment. The LC50 values were 634.747 mg/L for A. salina and 602.494 mg/L for E. eugeniae at 24 hours post-treatment. These findings indicate that entomopathogenic fungi-derived CuNPs are a promising, target-specific candidate for controlling A. albopictus at various life stages (larvae, pupae, and adults).

Assessment of extracellular polymeric substances production and antioxidant defences in periphytic communities exposed to effluent contaminants

Periphyton is frequently used in the evaluation of the ecological status of aquatic ecosystems using diatoms as a proxy. However, periphyton has a particularity, the production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), which might play a protective role against exposure to harmful environmental contaminants. Effluents originating in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) constitute some of the most complex mixtures of contaminants, to which aquatic ecosystems are frequently exposed, often containing tens to hundreds of different chemicals. In such challenging scenarios, a putative protective role of EPS may obscure the bioindicator value of diatoms. To address this problem, we sampled periphyton upstream and downstream of the effluent outfall from three different WWTPs, quantifying EPS production and simultaneously evaluating general stress responses in the community (protein and sugar content, photosynthetic pigments, antioxidant enzyme activity and oxidative damage). By combining these endpoints with a characterization of the sediments of the riverine systems receiving the effluents made in a previous study (metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, pharmaceuticals and personal care products), we aimed to elucidate whether effluent contaminants trigger negative effects, which may be mitigated by EPS layers protecting the communities. Our results indicated that under a comparatively milder contamination burden, EPS production is enhanced in samples collected downstream of the effluent outfall; under a higher contamination burden, EPS production is hampered. Stress-coping mechanisms were activated by environmental contaminants, including the antioxidant defense, particularly through catalase and superoxide dismutase activity. The findings support the generally assumed protective effect of EPS, but also suggest that EPS production depends on the contamination burden and that protective effects should be in place under specific scenarios of, for example, relatively low contamination levels. Overall, the integrative approach used in this study contributes to a better understanding of the complex interplay of interactions between effluent-driven contamination and thriving periphytic communities inhabiting recipient waterways, including evolved protection mechanisms.

The heat is on: sensitivity of goldsinny wrasse to global climate change

Unsustainable harvesting practices have drastically reduced fish populations globally and developments in aquaculture have increased. Unexpectedly, Atlantic salmon farming caused the opening of a new fishery in northern European countries, where previously unharvested mesopredatory species, like the goldsinny wrasse (Ctenolabrus rupestris), are captured for use as cleaner fish in pens along the coast and fjords. The goldsinny wrasse is widespread in coastal areas where it plays an ecologically important role as a predator of small invertebrates. Since climate change effects are particularly pronounced in coastal waters, it becomes urgent to understand how fish like the goldsinny will respond to global climate change, including the increasing frequency and intensity of marine heatwaves (MHWs), ocean freshening (OF) and ocean acidification (OA). To address this, we conducted a multi-stressor experiment exposing adult goldsinny to each stressor individually, as well as to all three combined. The results indicated that the goldsinny is highly affected by MHWs and extremely sensitive to a multi-stressor environment, with 34% and 53% mortality, respectively. Additionally, exposure to a MHW event, OF and multi-stressor conditions affected fish metabolism, with the highest standard metabolic- and maximum metabolic-oxygen consumption rates observed for the MHW treatment. Increases in oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and percent oxidized glutathione (% GSSG) in the livers, indicative of oxidative stress, were also seen in the MHW, OF and multi-stressor treatments. As a single stressor, OA showed no significant impacts on the measured parameters. This information is important for conservation of coastal marine environments, given the species' important role in shallow-water habitats and for management of goldsinny or other mesopredatory fish harvested in coastal ecosystems. The sensitivity of the goldsinny wrasse to future stressors is of concern, and any potential reductions in abundance as a result of climate change may lead to cascade effects with ecosystem-wide consequences.

Lonicera japonica Fermented by Lactobacillus plantarum Improve Multiple Patterns Driven Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis (OP) represents a global health challenge. Certain functional food has the potential to mitigate OP. Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) solution has medicinal effects, such as anti-inflammatory and immune enhancement, and can be used in functional foods such as health drinks and functional snacks. The composition of honeysuckle changed significantly after fermentation, and 376 metabolites were enriched. In this study, we used dexamethasone to induce OP in the rat model. Research has confirmed the ability of FS (fermented Lonicera japonica solution) to enhance bone mineral density (BMD), repair bone microarchitectural damage, and increase blood calcium levels. Markers such as tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-5b (TRACP-5b) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) were notably decreased, whereas osteocalcin (OCN) levels increased after FS treatment. FS intervention in OP rats restored the abundance of 6 bacterial genera and the contents of 17 serum metabolites. The results of the Spearman correlation analysis showed that FS may alleviate OP by restoring the abundance of 6 bacterial genera and the contents of 17 serum metabolites, reducing osteoclast differentiation, promoting osteoblast differentiation, and reducing the inflammatory response. This study revealed that Lactobacillus plantarum-fermented honeysuckle alleviated OP through intestinal bacteria and serum metabolites and provided a theoretical basis for the development of related functional foods.

Unravelling the complexities of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis: The role of metabolism, transporters, and herb-drug interactions

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a mainstream halting liver disease with high prevalence in North America, Europe, and other world regions. It is an advanced form of NAFLD caused by the amassing of fat in the liver and can progress to the more severe form known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Until recently, there was no authorized pharmacotherapy reported for NASH, and to improve the patient's metabolic syndrome, the focus is mainly on lifestyle modification, weight loss, ensuring a healthy diet, and increased physical activity; however, the recent approval of Rezdiffra (Resmetirom) by the US FDA may change this narrative. As per the reported studies, there is an increased articulation of uptake and efflux transporters of the liver, including OATP and MRP, in NASH, leading to changes in the drug's pharmacokinetic properties. This increase leads to alterations in the pharmacokinetic properties of drugs. Furthermore, modifications in Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes can have a significant impact on these properties. Xenobiotics are metabolized primarily in the liver and constitute liver enzymes and transporters. This review aims to delve into the role of metabolism, transport, and potential herb-drug interactions in the context of NASH.

Naphthalene and phenanthrene affect differentially two glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) expression, GST activity, and glutathione content in white shrimp P. vannamei

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are persistent organic pollutants ubiquitous in coastal ecosystems. The white shrimp Penaeus vannamei naturally inhabits in coastal areas and is cultivated in farms located nearby the oceans. PAHs can damage shrimp health, endanger natural populations, and lower shrimp aquaculture productivity. However, crustaceans have enzymes capable of metabolizing organic xenobiotics as PAHs and to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced during xenobiotics metabolism. An important superfamily of xenobiotic-metabolizing and antioxidant enzymes are glutathione S-transferases (GSTs). In white shrimp, some GSTs are known, but they have been scarcely studied in response to PAHs. In this study we report the molecular cloning and bioinformatic characterization of two novel nucleotide sequences corresponding to cytosolic GSTs belonging the Delta and Theta classes (GSTD and GSTT). Both proteins genes have tissue-specific patterns of expression under normal conditions, that do not necessarily relate to GST activity and glutathione content. The expression of the GSTD and GSTT, GST activity and glutathione content was analyzed in juvenile P. vannamei exposed to two PAHs, naphthalene (NAP) and phenanthrene (PHE) in sub-lethal concentrations for 96 h. GSTD expression was up-regulated by the two PAHs, while GSTT expression was only induced by NAP. In contrast, GST activity towards CDNB was only up-regulated by PHE, suggesting differential effects of PAHs at gene and protein level. On the other hand, lower reduced glutathione content (GSH) caused by PAHs indicates its utilization for detoxification or antioxidant defenses. However, the GSH/GSSG did not change by PAHs treatment, indicating that shrimp can maintain redox balance during short-term sub-lethal exposure to NAP and PHE. Despite the variations in the responses to NAP and PHE, all these results suggest that the GSTD and GSTT genes could be useful biomarkers for PAH exposure in P. vannamei.

Vitamin E alleviates chlorpyrifos induced glutathione depletion, lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation to inhibit ferroptosis in hepatocytes and mitigate toxicity in zebrafish

Organophosphates, a widely used group of pesticides, can cause severe toxicity in human beings and other non-target organisms. Liver, being the primary site for xenobiotic metabolism, is extremely vulnerable to xenobiotic-induced toxicity. Considering the numerous vital functions performed by the liver, including xenobiotic detoxification, protecting this organ from the ubiquitous pesticides in our food and environment is essential for maintaining homeostasis. In this study, we have investigated the impact of the organophosphate pesticide, Chlorpyrifos (CPF), on zebrafish liver at a concentration (300 μg/L) which is environmentally realistic. We have also demonstrated the role of dietary supplementation of α-tocopherol or Vitamin E (Vit E) (500 mg/kg feed) in mitigating pesticide-induced liver toxicity. Mechanistically, we showed that Vit E resulted in significant elevation of the Nrf2 and its downstream antioxidant enzyme activities and gene expressions, especially that of GST and GPx, resulting in reduction of CPF-induced intracellular lipid ROS and hepatic LPO. Further interrogation, such as analysis of GSH: GSSG ratio, intracellular iron concentration, iron metabolizing genes, mitochondrial dysfunction etc. revealed that CPF induces ferroptosis which can be reversed by Vit E supplementation. Ultimately, reduced concentration of CPF in zebrafish serum and flesh highlighted the role of Vit E in ameliorating CPF toxicity.

Review of Allelopathy in Green Tides: The Case of Ulva prolifera in the South Yellow Sea

The proliferation of large green macroalgae in marine environments has led to the occurrence of green tides, particularly in the South Yellow Sea region of China, where Ulva prolifera has been identified as the primary species responsible for the world's largest green tide events. Allelopathy among plants is a critical factor influencing the dynamics of green tides. This review synthesizes previous research on allelopathic interactions within green tides, categorizing four extensively studied allelochemicals: fatty acids, aldehydes, phenols, and terpenes. The mechanisms by which these compounds regulate the physiological processes of green tide algae are examined in depth. Additionally, recent advancements in the rapid detection of allelochemicals are summarized, and their potential applications in monitoring green tide events are discussed. The integration of advanced monitoring technologies, such as satellite observation and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, with allelopathic substance detection is also explored. This combined approach addresses gaps in understanding the dynamic processes of green tide formation and provides a more comprehensive insight into the mechanisms driving these phenomena. The findings and new perspectives presented in this review aim to offer valuable insights and inspiration for researchers and policymakers.

Physiological responses of Atlantic cod to climate change indicate that coastal ecotypes may be better adapted to tolerate ocean stressors

Healthy ecosystems and species have some degree of resilience to changing conditions, however as the frequency and severity of environmental changes increase, resilience may be diminished or lost. In Sweden, one example of a species with reduced resilience is the Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua). This species has been subjected to overfishing, and with additional pressures such as habitat degradation and changing environmental conditions there has been little to no recovery, despite more than a decade of management actions. Given the historical ecological, economical, and cultural significance of cod, it is important to understand how Atlantic cod respond to global climate change to recover and sustainably manage this species in the future. A multi-stressor experiment was conducted to evaluate physiological responses of juvenile cod exposed to warming, ocean acidification, and freshening, changes expected to occur in their nursery habitat. The response to single drivers showed variable effects related to fish biometrics and increased levels of oxidative stress dependent parameters. Importantly, two separate responses were seen within a single treatment for the multi-stressor and freshening groups. These within-treatment differences were correlated to genotype, with the offshore ecotype having a heightened stress response compared to the coastal ecotype, which may be better adapted to tolerate future changes. These results demonstrate that, while Atlantic cod have some tolerance for future changes, ecotypes respond differently, and cumulative effects of multiple stressors may lead to deleterious effects for this important species.

Multispecies and multibiomarker assessment of fish health from Iguaçu River reservoir, Southern Brazil

This study investigated the impact of micropollutants on fish health from Segredo hydroelectric reservoir (HRS) along the Iguaçu River, Southern Brazil, contaminated by urban, industrial, and agricultural activities. This is the first comprehensive study assessment in the river after the severe drought in the 2020s in three fish species from different trophic levels Astyanax spp. (water column depth/omnivorous), Hypostomus commersoni (demersal/herbivorous), and Pimelodus maculatus (demersal/omnivorous). Animals, water, and sediment samples were collected from three distinct sites within the reservoir: Floresta (upstream), Iratim (middle), and Station (downstream). The chemical analysis revealed elevated concentrations of metals (Al, Cu, Fe) and the metalloid As in water, or Cu, Zn, and As in sediment, surpassing Brazilian regulatory limits, while the organic pollutants as DDT, PAHs, PCBs, and PBDEs were found under the Brazilian regulatory limits. The metal bioaccumulation was higher in gills with no significant differences among sites. The species Astyanax spp. and H. commersoni displayed variations in hepatosomatic index (HSI) and P. maculatus in the condition factor index (K) between sites, while adverse effects due to micropollutants bioaccumulation were observed by biochemical, genotoxic, and histopathological biomarkers. The principal component analysis and integrated biomarker response highlighted the upstream site Floresta as particularly inhospitable for biota, with distinctions based on trophic level. Consequently, this multifaceted approach, encompassing both fish biomarkers and chemical analyses, furnishes valuable insights into the potential toxic repercussions of micropollutant exposure. These findings offer crucial data for guiding management and conservation endeavors in the Iguaçu River.

Comparative toxicology of algal cell extracts and pure cyanotoxins: insights into toxic effects and mechanisms of harmful cyanobacteria Raphidiopsis raciborskii

Ongoing research on cyanotoxins, driven by the socioeconomic impact of harmful algal blooms, emphasizes the critical necessity of elucidating the toxicological profiles of algal cell extracts and pure toxins. This study comprehensively compares Raphidiopsis raciborskii dissolved extract (RDE) and cylindrospermopsin (CYN) based on Daphnia magna assays. Both RDE and CYN target vital organs and disrupt reproduction, development, and digestion, thereby causing acute and chronic toxicity. Disturbances in locomotion, reduced behavioral activity, and weakened swimming capability in D. magna have also been reported for both RDE and CYN, indicating the insufficiency of conventional toxicity evaluation parameters for distinguishing between the toxic effects of algal extracts and pure cyanotoxins. Additionally, chemical profiling revealed the presence of highly active tryptophan-, humic acid-, and fulvic acid-like fluorescence compounds in the RDE, along with the active constituents of CYN, within a 15-day period, demonstrating the chemical complexity and dynamics of the RDE. Transcriptomics was used to further elucidate the distinct molecular mechanisms of RDE and CYN. They act diversely in terms of cytotoxicity, involving oxidative stress and response, protein content, and energy metabolism, and demonstrate distinct modes of action in neurofunctions. In essence, this study underscores the distinct toxicity mechanisms of RDE and CYN and emphasizes the necessity for context- and objective-specific toxicity assessments, advocating nuanced approaches to evaluate the ecological and health implications of cyanotoxins, thereby contributing to the precision of environmental risk assessments.

Microcystin-LR and polystyrene microplastics jointly lead to hepatic histopathological damage and antioxidant dysfunction in male zebrafish

The co-occurrence of cyanobacterial blooms and nano-microplastic pollution in the water is becoming an emerging risk. To assess the combined hepatotoxicity of microcystin-LR (MC-LR) and polystyrene microplastics (PSMPs) on zebrafish (Danio rerio), male adult zebrafish were exposed to single MC-LR (0, 1, 5, 25 μg/L) and a mixture of MC-LR and PSMPs (100 μg/L). After 60 d exposure, the results indicated that PSMPs significantly increased the MC-LR bioaccumulation in the livers in contrast to the single 25 μg/L MC-LR treatment group. Moreover, the severity of hepatic pathological lesions was aggravated in the MC-LR + PSMPs treatment groups, which were mainly characterized by cellular vacuolar degeneration, swollen hepatocytes, and pyknotic nucleus. The ultrastructural changes also proved that PSMPs combined with MC-LR could enhance the swollen mitochondria and dilated endoplasmic reticulum. The biochemical results, including increased malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreased glutathione (GSH), indicated that PSMPs intensified the MC-LR-induced oxidative damage in the combined treatment groups. Concurrently, alterations of sod1 and keap1a mRNA levels also confirmed that PSMPs together with MC-LR jointly lead to enhanced oxidative injury. Our findings demonstrated that PSMPs enhanced the MC-LR bioavailability by acting as a vector and exacerbating the hepatic injuries and antioxidant dysfunction in zebrafish.

Biochemical, molecular, and physiological assessments of crude oil dietary exposure in sub-adult red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus)

A 14-day exposure study in which sub-adult red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) were fed a petroleum crude oil-treated pellet feed was conducted to assess the potential effects of ingesting an oil-contaminated food source. Though food consumption decreased, significant polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons accumulated in the body and liver, which did not affect the body and liver's fatty acid composition. In the red drum given the crude oil-treated feed, a significant decrease in the RNA:DNA growth rate index was noted, while only subtle changes in body and liver lipid composition were seen. Differentially expressed gene analysis in the liver demonstrated a significant down-regulation of leptin and up-regulation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like protein 1. Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses indicated enrichment of terms and pathways associated with cholesterol biosynthesis and oxidative stress. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis further predicted activation of seven pathways associated with cholesterol biosynthesis. Measured oxidative stress biomarkers in the blood indicated decreased systemic antioxidants with increased lipid peroxidation. The results of this study suggest that dietary oil exposure alters the signaling of biological pathways critical in cholesterol biosynthesis and disruptions in systemic oxidative homeostasis.

Biological responses in Danio rerio by the disinfectant SDBS in SARS-CoV-2 pandemic

The use of disinfectants, such as Sodium Dodecylbenzene Sulfonic acid salt (SDBS), has grown since the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, with environmentally unknown consequences. The present study analyzed SDBS effects in the fish species Danio rerio, using a combination of biomarkers. Our data reported that larvae had their total locomotor activity increased when exposed to 1 mg/L of SDBS, but this parameter was decreased in fish exposed to 5 mg/L. A significant increment of erratic movements was reported in fish exposed to 1 and 5 mg/L of SDBS. These concentrations inhibited CYP1A1/CYP1A2, and of GSTs inhibition, suggesting SDBS is not preferentially biotransformed by these routes. Results concerning the antioxidant defense biomarkers (CAT and GPx) showed no straightforward pattern, suggesting SDBS exposure may have resulted in changes in redox balance. Finally, acetylcholinesterase activity increased. In summary, increased use of SDBS in a near future may result in deleterious effects in environmentally exposed fish.

Two novel glutathione S-transferase (GST) genes in the toxic marine dinoflagellate Alexandrium pacificum and their transcriptional responses to environmental contaminants

The present study identified two novel glutathione S-transferase (GST) genes from the toxic dinoflagellate Alexandrium pacificum and examined their molecular characteristics and transcriptional responses to algicides and environmental contaminants. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that both ApGSTs are cytosolic, belonging to the chi-like class (ApGST1) and an undefined class (ApGST2). The overall expression of ApGSTs showed similar patterns depending on the exposed contaminants, while they were differently regulated by polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB). Copper treatments (CuCl2 and CuSO4) did not significantly induce the expression of ApGSTs. The highest up-regulations of ApGST1 and ApGST2 were under 6-h treatments of 0.10 and 0.50 mg L-1 NaOCl. Interestingly, only ApGST1 increased significantly after 0.10, 0.50, and 1.00 mg L-1 of PCB exposure (6 h). Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) increased considerably under NaOCl; however, it was not significantly higher in the PCB-treated cells. GST activity was increased by NaOCl and PCB treatments, but only PCB caused apoptosis. These results suggest that GSTs are involved in the first line of phase II detoxification, protecting dinoflagellate cells against oxidative damage.

Size-dependent and sex-specific negative effects of micro- and nano-sized polystyrene particles in the terrestrial invertebrate model Drosophila melanogaster

Microplastic pollution is believed to be one of the most widespread and long-lasting changes on a global scale. Our understanding that microplastics significantly impact terrestrial systems and are a global change stressor continues to grow. In the present study, we investigated the negative effect of long-term (28 days of exposure in food) polystyrene particles of micro (1.0-1.9 µm, 0.4-0.6 µm) and nano (0.04-0.06 µm) scale, in low doses, on the fruit fly - representing a common, globally distributed terrestrial invertebrate, and a model species in many fields. Our observations involved such parameters as ingestion and transfer of particles, survival, reproduction, changes in ultrastructure and tissue and cell responses in midgut epithelium (the place of direct contact with plastic), ovary, and testis in adults, and transgenerational effects in larvae. These observations may indicate possible toxic effects of the tested substances, even in low doses, that can be expected in other taxa, in terrestrial ecosystems. We observed a negative impact of polystyrene particles on the fruit fly survival, midgut, ovary, and testis, involving ultrastructural alterations, such as autophagy and/or ultimately necrosis in the midgut, triggering oxidative stress and activating processes of antioxidative protection. Despite the changes, midgut function and reproduction were not altered - spermatogenesis and oogenesis proceeded normally. The effect was size-dependent - the smaller the polystyrene particles were, the more substantial was the impact they caused. Ultrastructural changes and studied parameters, i.e., generation of ROS (overproduction of which generates oxidative stress), total glutathione concentration (involved in defense against ROS, acting in distinct pathways), and total antioxidant concentration (the oxidative defense system) showed the highest levels after exposure to the smallest nanoparticles, and vice versa. The effect was also sex-dependent, with male flies being more sensitive. Negative effects in males were more substantial and more prominent, even after contact with larger particles, compared to females. The smaller particles (0.4-0.6 µm, 0.04-0.06 µm) were transferred to the ovary and accumulated in the oocytes. In this case, a transgenerational negative effect was detected in larvae. It was characterized by size-dependent alterations, with smaller particles triggering higher levels of ROS and cellular oxidative response. Only the largest particles (1.0-1.9 µm) did not pass into the gonad and did not alter the larvae. These observations together demonstrated that polystyrene particles of micro- and nanoscale, even in a low dose, can induce numerous negative effects on terrestrial invertebrates.

Subacute toxicity and endocrine-disrupting effects of Fe2O3, ZnO, and CeO2 nanoparticles on amphibian metamorphosis

This study evaluated the potential toxic and endocrine-disrupting effects of sublethal concentrations of Fe2O3, CeO2 and ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) on amphibian metamorphosis. Tadpoles were exposed to several NPs concentrations, reaching a maximum of 1000 µg/L, for up to 21 days according to the amphibian metamorphosis assay (AMA). Some standard morphological parameters, such as developmental stage (DS), hind limb length (HLL), snout-to-vent length (SVL), wet body weight (WBW), and as well as post-exposure lethality were recorded in exposed organisms on days 7 and 21 of the bioassay. Furthermore, triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and the activities of glutathione S-transferases (GST), glutathione reductase (GR), catalase (CAT), carboxylesterase (CaE), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) were determined in exposed tadpoles as biomarkers. The results indicate that short-term exposure to Fe2O3 NPs leads to toxic effects, both exposure periods cause toxic effects and growth inhibition for ZnO NPs, while short-term exposure to CeO2 NPs results in toxic effects and long-term exposure causes endocrine-disrupting effects. The responses observed after exposure to the tested NPs during amphibian metamorphosis suggest that they may have ecotoxicological effects and their effects should be monitored through field studies.

Microplastic ingestion and its effects οn sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus: A field study in a coastal East Mediterranean environment

Microplastics (MPs) are recognized as an increasing threat to the marine environment, but little is known about their effects on benthic organisms, including sea urchins, when ingested. For this purpose, wild sea urchins (P. lividus) and seafloor sediment samples were investigated across three coastal areas of Zakynthos Island (Ionian Sea), each exposed to different anthropogenic pressures, revealing a consistent pattern in MP abundance, shape, and color. Biomarkers related to oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, and genotoxicity showed no significant effects of MP ingestion in the sea urchins, except for a positive correlation between GST activity and ingested MPs, suggesting a possible activation of their detoxification system in response to MP ingestion. While MP concentrations in sea urchins and sediments were within the low range reported in the global literature, it remains crucial to conduct further investigations in areas with MP pollution approaching predicted levels to fully comprehend the potential effects of MP pollution on marine organisms.

Alternations of Fertility Parameters by Graded Dose of Inorganic Arsenic in Adult Male White Pekin Ducks

A significant health issue, reproductive toxicity is mostly linked to exposure to various environmental heavy metals. A pervasive toxin that occurs naturally in the environment is arsenic (As). This research was done to determine the effects of various doses of inorganic As supplements on the reproductive organs of adult male white Pekin ducks. A total of 240 numbers of 14-days-old male white Pekin ducks were weighed and randomly assigned into 4 experimental groups with six replicates (10 ducklings in each replicate). The experimental groups were as follows: (T-1) basal diet along with normal drinking water (control group); (T-2 to T-4) basal diet along with As in the form of sodium-meta-arsenite at 7, 14, and 28 ppm of drinking water respectively. The results showed reduction in body weight and testicular weight, disruption of spermatogenesis, reduction in follicular-stimulating hormone (FSH), leutinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone levels and histopathological alterations as compared to control. Additionally, there was not only a significant decrease in various antioxidant parameters in testis tissue, like catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), super oxide dismutase (SOD), and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), but also a significant increase in oxidative parameters of testis like lipid peroxidation (LPO), myloperoxidase (MPO), nitric oxide (NO), and super oxide anion radical (O2-) in As-treated groups, in comparison with T-1. A significantly higher level of As content in testis was observed in all the 3 As-treated groups, with highest level recorded in T-4 birds. Besides that, there was upregulation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), heat shock proteins (Hsps) and pro-inflammatory cytokines like interlukin (IL) series, i.e., IL-2, IL-6, IL-18, IL-1β and tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α) levels, whereas anti-inflammatory parameters like IL-4 and IL-10 levels showed downregulation in testis of As-treated groups. Together, these findings provide deeper understandings of the roles played by oxidative stress, NF-κB and Hsps in the progression of testicular injury, which may help to explain how the As induced male sterility, in ducks, due to exposure.

Lingering Effects of Legacy Industrial Pollution on Yellow Perch of the Detroit River

We used yellow perch (Perca flavescens) captured at four sites differing in legacy industrial pollution in the Lake St. Clair-Detroit River system to evaluate the lingering sublethal effects of industrial pollution. We emphasized bioindicators of direct (toxicity) and indirect (chronic stress, impoverished food web) effects on somatic and organ-specific growth (brain, gut, liver, heart ventricle, gonad). Our results show that higher sediment levels of industrial contaminants at the most downstream Detroit River site (Trenton Channel) are associated with increased perch liver detoxification activity and liver size, reduced brain size, and reduced scale cortisol content. Trenton Channel also displayed food web disruption, where adult perch occupied lower trophic positions than forage fish. Somatic growth and relative gut size were lower in perch sampled at the reference site in Lake St. Clair (Mitchell's Bay), possibly because of increased competition for resources. Models used to determine the factors contributing to site differences in organ growth suggest that the lingering effects of industrial pollution are best explained by trophic disruption. Thus, bioindicators of fish trophic ecology may prove advantageous to assess the health of aquatic ecosystems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:2158-2170. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.

Omics techniques reveal the toxicity mechanisms of three antiepileptic drugs to juvenile zebrafish (Danio rerio) brain and liver

Epilepsy, a neurological disorder, is characterized by seizures that are an appearance of excessive brain activity and is symptomatically treated with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). Oxcarbazepine (OCBZ), lamotrigine (LTG), and carbamazepine (CBZ) are widely used AEDs in clinics and are very often detected in aquatic environments. However, neither the sub-lethal effects nor the specific mechanisms of these AEDs' action on the fish are well understood. In this study, juvenile zebrafish were exposed to a sub-lethal concentration (100 μg/L) of OCBZ, LTG, and CBZ for 28 d, after which indicators of oxidative stress (i.e. superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, catalase (CAT) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) level) and neurotoxicity (i.e. acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) level, and glutamic acid (Glu) level) were measured. Brain SOD activity was significantly increased by three AEDs, while brain CAT activity was significantly inhibited by LTG and CBZ. Liver SOD activity was significantly enhanced by CBZ, and liver CAT activity was significantly induced by OCBZ and LTG. Liver MDA level was significantly increased by three AEDs. Brain AChE activity was significantly increased by LTG and CBZ, and brain GABA level was significantly enhanced by three AEDs. However, there were no significant alterations in the levels of MDA and Glu in zebrafish brain. To ascertain mechanisms of AEDs-induced toxicity, brain transcriptomics and liver metabolomics were conducted in zebrafish. The brain transcriptomics results showed that lots of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were enriched in the sensory system, the immune system, the digestive system, the metabolic processes, and others in three AEDs treated groups. The metabolomics data indicated dysregulation of glycerophospholipid signaling and lipid homeostasis in zebrafish liver after three AEDs exposure. The overall results of this study improve understanding of the sub-lethal effects and potential molecular mechanisms of action of AEDs in fish.

Temperature-Dependent Bioaccumulation, Metabolism, and Hepatotoxicity of Flufiprole in Lizards (Eremias argus)

As a phenylpyrazole insecticide, flufiprole is an important substitute for fipronil in the agricultural field of China. However, its bioaccumulation and metabolism in terrestrial organisms especially in the lizards living in the agricultural area have rarely been investigated. As an ectothermic animal, lizards are also sensitive to temperature changes. Considering global warming, this study measured bioaccumulation, metabolism, and hepatotoxicity of flufiprole in the Chinese native lizard (Eremias argus) under different temperature stresses. Lizards exposed to flufiprole-contaminated soil adsorbed flufiprole through the skin and flufiprole was preferred to accumulate in lizard liver and brain. The oxidation product fipronil sulfone was the main metabolite of flufiprole in both lizard liver and human liver microsomes, which were mainly metabolized by lizard CYP3A19 or human CYP3A4. The fipronil sulfone concentration increased with increased temperature in lizard tissues. In addition, more serious oxidative damage was shown under higher temperature as the glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels in lizards increased with increased temperature after flufiprole exposure. Flufiprole exposure also induced lizard liver lesions, and these lesions became more serious in the higher-temperature groups. This study provided new insights into the risk assessment of flufiprole in lizards under global warming.

Characterization of N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD)-induced cardiotoxicity in larval zebrafish (Danio rerio)

N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD) is a type of p-phenylenediamine (PPD), which is widely used in the manufacture of rubber tires owing to its excellent antiozonant properties. In this study, the developmental cardiotoxicity of 6PPD was evaluated in zebrafish larvae, and the LC50 was approximately 737 μg/L for the larvae at 96 h post fertilization (hpf). In the 6PPD treatment of 100 μg/L, the accumulation concentrations of 6PPD were up to 2658 ng/g in zebrafish larvae, and 6PPD induced significant oxidative stress and cell apoptosis in the early developmental stages of zebrafish. Transcriptome analysis showed that 6PPD exposure could potentially cause cardiotoxicity in larval zebrafish by affecting the transcription of the genes related to the calcium signal pathway and cardiac muscle contraction. The genes related to calcium signaling pathway (slc8a2b, cacna1ab, cacna1da, and pln) were verified by qRT-PCR, which were significantly downregulated in larval zebrafish after exposing to 100 μg/L of 6PPD. Simultaneously, the mRNA levels of the genes related to cardiac functions (myl7, sox9, bmp10, and myh71) also respond accordingly. H&E staining and heart morphology investigation indicated that cardiac malformation occurred in zebrafish larvae exposed to 100 μg/L of 6PPD. Furthermore, the phenotypic observation of transgenic Tg (myl7: EGFP) zebrafish also confirmed that 100 μg/L of 6PPD exposure could change the distance of atria and ventricles of the heart and inhibit some key genes (cacnb3a, ATP2a1l, ryr1b) related to cardiac function in larval zebrafish. These results revealed the toxic effects of 6PPD on the cardiac system of zebrafish larvae.

Targeted metabolomics characterizes metabolite occurrence and variability in stable freshwater mussel populations

Freshwater mussels (order Unionida) play a key role in freshwater systems as ecosystem engineers and indicators of aquatic ecosystem health. The fauna is globally imperilled due to a diversity of suspected factors; however, causes for many population declines and mortality events remain unconfirmed due partly to limited health assessment tools. Mussel-monitoring activities often rely on population-level measurements, such as abundance and age structure, which reflect delayed responses to environmental conditions. Measures of organismal health would enable preemptive detection of declining condition before population-level effects manifest. Metabolomic analysis can identify shifts in biochemical pathways in response to stressors and changing environmental conditions; however, interpretation of the results requires information on inherent variability of metabolite concentrations in mussel populations. We targeted metabolites in the haemolymph of two common mussels, Lampsilis cardium and Lampsilis siliquoidea, from three Indiana streams (USA) using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography combined with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectroscopy. The influence of species, stream and sex on metabolite variability was examined with distance-based redundancy analysis. Metabolite variability was most influenced by species, followed by site and sex. Inter- and intraspecies metabolite variability among sexes was less distinct than differences among locations. We further categorized metabolites by occurrence and variability in mussel populations. Metabolites with high occurrence (Categories 1 and 2) included those indicative of energy status (catabolism versus anabolism; arginine, proline, carnitine, nicotinic acid, pantothenic acid), oxidative stress (proline, glutamine, glutamate) and protein metabolism (thymidine, cytidine, inosine). Metabolites with lower occurrence (Category 3) are constituents of assorted metabolic pathways and can be important biomarkers with additional temporal sampling to characterize their variability. These data provide a reference for future temporal (before/after) monitoring and for studies of stressor-metabolite linkages in freshwater mussels.

African Jointfir (Gnetum africanum) and Editan (Lasianthera africana) leaf alkaloid extracts exert antioxidant and anticholinesterase activities in fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster)

African Jointfir (Gnetum africanum) and Editan (Lasianthera africana) leaves are two leafy green veggies with several nutritional and medicinal properties. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a form of neurodegeneration that is believed to cause dementia in affected individuals. The quest for alternative treatments has necessitated the exploitation of plants' secondary metabolites. Plant alkaloids have recently demonstrated relevance in the management of a variety of neurodegenerative disorders; although there is limited information on the neuroprotective properties of alkaloids from various tropical green leafy vegetables with neuroprotective potentials. As a result, this study examined the cholinesterase inhibitory activity and antioxidant potential of alkaloid extracts from the leaves of African Jointfir (G. africanum) and Editan (L. africana). Standard solvent extraction techniques were used to prepare alkaloid extracts. After that, these extracts were characterized using high-performance liquid chromatography. In vitro acetylcholinesterase inhibition assay for the extracts was also carried out. Subsequently, the alkaloid extracts were included in the diets of these flies (2 and 10 μg/g) for 7 days. Thereafter, treated fly homogenates were assayed for cholinesterase, monoamine oxidase, and antioxidant enzymes (specifically, glutathione-S-transferase catalase, and superoxide dismutase) activities, in addition, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, reactive oxygen species, and total thiol contents. The extracts showed considerable anticholinesterase, antioxidant, and antimonoamine oxidase capabilities, according to the study's findings. Also, HPLC characterization revealed that desulphosinigrin (597,000 ng/100 g) and atropine (44,200 ng/100 g) are the predominating phytochemicals in Editan and African Jointfir respectively. These extracts could serve as potential sources of nutraceuticals with neuroprotective properties which can be used in the treatment/management of Alzheimer's disease.

Contaminants of emerging concern in the Maumee River and their effects on freshwater mussel physiology

Contaminants of emerging concern pose a serious hazard to aquatic wildlife, especially freshwater mussels. The growing number of contaminants in aquatic systems requires scientists and managers to prioritize contaminants that are most likely to elicit a biological response for further monitoring and toxicological testing. The objectives of this study were to identify a sub-category of contaminants most likely to affect Pyganodon grandis and to describe alterations in metabolites and gene expression between various sites. Mussels were deployed in cages for two weeks at four sites along the Maumee River Basin, Ohio, USA. Water samples were analyzed for the presence of 220 contaminants. Hemolymph samples were collected for metabolomics and analyzed using mass spectrometry. Contaminants that significantly covaried with metabolites were identified using partial least-squares (PLS) regression. Tissue samples were collected for transcriptomics, RNA was sequenced using an Illumina HiSeq 2500, and differential expression analysis was performed on assembled transcripts. Of the 220 targeted contaminants, 69 were detected in at least one water sample. Of the 186 metabolites detected in mussel hemolymph, 43 showed significant differences between the four sites. The PLS model identified 44 contaminants that significantly covaried with changes in metabolites. A total of 296 transcripts were differentially expressed between two or more sites, 107 received BLAST hits, and 52 were annotated and assigned to one or more Gene Ontology domains. Our analyses reveal the contaminants that significantly covaried with changes in metabolites and are most likely to negatively impact freshwater mussel health and contribute to ongoing population declines in this group of highly endangered animals. Our integration of "omics" technologies provides a broad and in-depth assessment of the short-term effects of contaminants on organismal physiology. Our findings highlight which contaminants are most likely to be causing these changes and should be prioritized for more extensive toxicological testing.

Oxidative stress responses in the respiratory tree and the body wall of sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus (Selenka) to high temperature

Sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicas (Selenka) is one of the important aquaculture species distributed in northern China. In recent years, global warming caused frequent high temperature weather in summer in northern China, resulting in dramatic losses of the sea cucumber aquaculture industry. In the present study, we focused on the effect of oxidative stress in Apostichopus japonicus (Selenka) subjected to high temperature stress. Sea cumbers were exposed to the control (16 °C), and high temperature treatments (20 °C, 24 °C, and 28 °C) for 7 days. Then, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, catalase (CAT) activity, peroxidase (POD) activity, reduced glutathione (GSH) content, malondialdehyde (MDA) content and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) level in the respiratory tree and body wall were detected, respectively. Results showed that 24 °C and 28 °C acute exposure induced the elevation of ROS level, SOD, CAT, POD activities, GSH content, MDA content and 8-OHdG level in the respiratory tree of sea cucumber. In contrast, no significant changes were observed for ROS and 8-OHdG levels in the body wall of sea cucumber, while the antioxidants including SOD, CAT, POD, and GSH decreased to some extent. Moreover, MDA content exhibited a noticeable increase in the body wall, similarly to that in the respiratory tree, indicating that high temperature could induce severe lipid peroxidation in two tissues. Considering the differences in various biomarkers measured in two tissues, respiratory tree might be more susceptible to the high temperature changes compared to the body wall. Our findings may help understand the oxidative stress response to high temperature in the respiratory tree and the body wall in A. japonicus.

Feeding behavior, microcystin accumulation, biochemical response, and ultramicrostructure changes in edible freshwater bivalve Corbicula fluminea exposed to Microcystis aeruginosa

As filter-feeders, bivalves naturally come into direct contact with microcystins (MCs) in eutrophic water bodies suffering from cyanobacteria blooms. To date, however, no studies have quantified the dynamics of microcystin accumulation and depuration in the edible freshwater bivalve Corbicula fluminea when exposed to dense bloom concentrations of Microcystis aeruginosa, while considering dynamic changes of biochemical indexes and feeding structure. In the present study, the bioaccumulation and detoxification of microcystin-LR (MC-LR) in C. fluminea were investigated. Our results showed that C. fluminea would graze equally efficiently on green algae and M. aeruginosa, irrespective of whether the M. aeruginosa strains were toxic or non-toxic. MCs could be accumulated and depurated by C. fluminea efficiently. In addition, linear and exposure time-dependent MC-LR accumulation patterns were observed in C. fluminea. Activities of biotransformation (glutathione S-transferase, GST) and antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, SOD, and catalase, CAT) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents in various tissues of treated clams were stimulated by MCs in a tissue-specific manner. Our findings indicated that C. fluminea hepatopancreas was the primary target organ for MC-LR detoxification processes, as evidenced by a significant increase in GST activity. Besides, gills and mantle were more sensitive than the other tissues to oxidative stress in the initial microcystin exposure period with a significant increase in SOD activity. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations revealed that the lateral cilia in the gill aperture were well developed during the MCs exposure period, which could perform the filter-feeding function instead of the damaged frontal cilium. This study provides insight into the possible tolerance of C. fluminea exposed to dense bloom concentrations of M. aeruginosa.

In vitro and in silico enzyme inhibition effects of some metal ions and compounds on glutathione S-transferase enzyme purified from Vaccinium arctostapylous L

Glutathione s-transferase (GST) is a class of enzymes that performs a wide array of biological functions. However, GST enzymes are most famously known for their roles in catalyzing the conjugation of reduced glutathione (GSH) to electrophilic centers on a wide variety of substrates to induce water-solubility to compounds as a protective antioxidant mechanism against toxic substances. In the present study, in vitro inhibition effects of coumarin, ascorbic acid, sodium sulfide, sodium azide, citric acid compounds, and Cd²⁺, Cu²⁺, Ni²⁺, Mg²⁺ metal ions against GST enzyme were determined. For this aim, the GST enzyme was purified from Vaccinium arctostapylous L. using the glutathione-agarose affinity chromatography and Sephadex G-100 gel filtration steps. The respective metals and chemical compounds were used at different concentrations for measuring their in vitro GST activity effects. The K_i values of these agents were determined as 0.450 ± 0.13, 15.05 ± 7.05, 0.009 ± 0.001, 0.022 ± 0.006, 0.120 ± 0.36, 0.150 ± 0.06, 0.223 ± 0.03, 0.002 ± 0.0003, and 0.136 ± 0.06 mM, respectively. Finally, the molecular docking interactions of the compounds with the GST target enzyme were evaluated using Autodock Tools-1.5.6. The effective molecular interactions of coumarin, citric acid, ascorbic acid, and sodium sulfide with GST target enzyme were found with their binding lowest energy affinities -4.62, -3.04, -2.53, and -1.67 kcal/mol, respectively.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Oxidative Stress Parameters and Morphological Changes in Japanese Medaka (Oryzias latipes) after Acute Exposure to OA-Group Toxins

Toxins of the OA-group (okadaic acid, OA; dinophysistoxin-1, DTX-1) are the most prevalent in the fjords of southern Chile, and are characterized by their potential harmful effects on aquatic organisms. The present study was carried out to determine the acute toxicity of OA/DTX-1 on oxidative stress parameters in medaka (Oryzias latipes) larvae. Medaka larvae were exposed to different concentrations (1.0-30 μg/mL) of OA/DTX-1 for 96 h to determine the median lethal concentration. The LC₅₀ value after 96 h was 23.5 μg/mL for OA and 16.3 μg/mL for DTX-1 (95% confidence interval, CI was 22.56, 24.43 for OA and 15.42, 17.17 for DTX-1). Subsequently, larvae at 121 hpf were exposed to acute doses (10, 15 and 20 μg/mL OA and 5.0, 7.5 and 11.0 μg/mL DTX-1) for 96 h and every 6 h the corresponding group of larvae was euthanized in order to measure the activity levels of biochemical biomarkers (superoxide dismutase, SOD; catalase, CAT; glutathione peroxidase, GPx; and glutathione reductase, GR) as well as the levels of oxidative damage (malondialdehyde, MDA; and carbonyl content). Our results showed that acute doses caused a decrease in SOD (≈25%), CAT (≈55%), and GPx and GR (≈35%) activities, while MDA levels and carbonyl content increased significantly at the same OA/DTX-1 concentrations. This study shows that acute exposure to OA-group toxins tends to simultaneously alter the oxidative parameters that induce sustained morphological damage in medaka larvae. DTX-1 stands out as producing greater inhibition of the antioxidant system, leading to increased oxidative damage in medaka larvae. Considering that DTX-1 is the most prevalent HAB toxin in southern Chile, these findings raise the possibility of an important environmental impact on the larval stages of different fish species present in the southern fjords of the South Pacific.

Stereoselective toxicity, bioaccumulation, and metabolic pathways of triazole fungicide cyproconazole in zebrafish

Cyproconazole (CPZ) is a broad-spectrum fungicide that is widely used around the world. CPZ can persist in water which raised concerns about its potential adverse effects on aquatic life. In this study, the stereoselective toxicity, bioaccumulation, elimination, and kinetic biotransformation in zebrafish were investigated. The LC₅₀ of 96 h acute toxicity was 15.88, 19.68, 26.99, and 17.10 mg/L for SR-, SS-, RS-, and RR-CPZ, respectively. The uptake and elimination experiment showed the bioconcentration factor in order of SR- > RR- > SS- > RS-CPZ at the exposure concentration of 0.1 and 1 mg/L. In the depuration stage, CPZ isomers were rapidly eliminated by 99% within 24 h. Moreover, the oxidative stress responses (POD, SOD, and CAT) were stereoselectively induced by CPZ stereoisomers, the activity of POD was significantly increased in all CPZ treatment groups compared to the control while the activity of CAT exhibited a concentration-dependent decrease in the CPZ treatment group. Multiple metabolic pathways of CPZ in zebrafish were proposed for the first time and 7 phase I metabolites and 25 phase II conjugates were found. This study determined the potential toxicity of CPZ to zebrafish and provided a strategy for the risk evaluation of CPZ stereoisomers in aquatic ecosystems.

Duckweed: a potential phytosensor for heavy metals

Globally, heavy metal (HM) contamination is one of the primary causes of environmental pollution leading to decreased quality of life for those affected. In particular, HM contamination in groundwater poses a serious risk to human health and the potential for destabilization of aquatic ecosystems. At present, strategies to remove HM contamination from wastewater are inefficient, costly, laborious, and often the removal poses as much risk to the environment as the initial contamination. Phytoremediation, plant-based removal of contaminants from soil or water, has long been viewed as an economical and sustainable solution to remove toxic metals from the environment. However, to date, phytoremediation has demonstrated limited successes despite a large volume of literature supporting its potential. A key aspect for achieving robust and meaningful phytoremediation is the selection of a plant species that is well suited to the task. For the removal of pollutants from wastewater, hydrophytes, like duckweed, exhibit significant potential due to their rapid growth on nutrient-rich water, ease of collection, and ability to survive in various ecosystems. As a model for ecotoxicity studies, duckweed is an ideal candidate, as it is easy to cultivate under controlled and even sterile conditions, and the rapid growth enables multi-generational studies. Similarly, recent advances in the genetic engineering and genome-editing of duckweed will enable the transition from fundamental ecotoxicity studies to engineered solutions for phytoremediation of HMs. This review will provide insight into the suitability of duckweeds for phytoremediation of HMs and strategies for engineering next-generation duckweed to provide real-world environmental solutions.

Aged microplastics change the toxicological mechanism of roxithromycin on Carassius auratus: Size-dependent interaction and potential long-term effects

Size effects of microplastics have received extensive attention for their influence on other pollutants and harm to organisms. In this study, we investigated the uptake, elimination, tissue distribution and potential toxicity mechanism of roxithromycin (ROX) in the presence of 0.5, 5 and 50 μm of aged microplastics (AMPs) in Carassius auratus. The results showed that AMPs promoted the ROX bioaccumulation of various tissues in a size-dependent manner. AMPs and ROX significantly induced superoxide dismutase and catalase activities of liver and gut, and inhibited acetylcholinesterase activities of brain. The coexistence of smaller AMPs exacerbated pathological abnormalities in liver, gill and brain induced by ROX, while larger AMPs caused more intestinal damage. Moreover, high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing indicated that the abundance of Proteobacteria in 0.5 μm AMPs and ROX joint treatments and Firmicutes and Bacteroidota in 50 μm AMPs and ROX joint treatments were significantly raised (p < 0.05). Metabolomics revealed that AMPs and ROX had a size-dependent long-term effect on gut microbial metabolites, which was mainly related to galactose metabolism, amino acid metabolism and primary bile acid biosynthesis pathways after a 7-day elimination, respectively. These results provide important insights into the relationship between the size effect of AMPs and interaction mechanism of AMPs and coexisting pollutants on aquatic organisms.

Associations of single and multiple perfluoroalkyl substances exposure with folate among adolescents in NHANES 2007-2010

BACKGROUND

The accumulation of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in human body has raised concerns about the potential health impacts on children and adolescents. However, no study has evaluated the associations of PFAS exposure with folate concentrations among adolescents.

METHODS

In the present study, we mainly used three statistical approaches, namely multiple linear regression, Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR), and quantile-based g-computation (Q-gcomp) models, to evaluate associations of individual PFAS and their mixtures with serum and red blood cell (RBC) folate concentrations in a sample of 721 adolescents from the NHANES 2007-2010.

RESULTS

In multiple linear regression models, for per unit increase in ln-transformed perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA) concentrations, RBC folate concentrations decreased by 72.4 (95% confidence interval (CI): -112.7, -32.2), 58.3 (95% CI: -115.0, -1.6), 60.7 (95% CI: -107.5, -13.8), and 76.5 (95% CI: -119.0, -33.9) nmol/L, respectively. A similar significant inverse association was also observed between ln-transformed PFDA and serum folate. BKMR models further confirmed inverse associations of serum PFOS and PFDA with RBC folate, and serum PFDA with serum folate. However, the inverse associations of PFOA and PFNA with RBC folate shown in multiple linear regression model were not observed or less evident in BKMR analyses. We observed interactions of PFOA with PFOS, PFNA, and PFDA on RBC folate in BKMR models, with the negative slopes for PFOS, PFNA, and PFDA increased when PFOA concentration increased from the 10th percentile to the 90th percentile. Both BKMR and Q-gcomp models suggested that the mixtures of five PFAS showed inverse overall associations with RBC folate concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study revealed that adolescent exposure to PFAS might affect serum and RBC folate concentrations.

Investigation of metabolic crosstalk between host and pathogenic Clostridioides difficile via multiomics approaches

Clostridioides difficile is a gram-positive anaerobic bacterium that causes antibiotic-associated infections in the gut. C. difficile infection develops in the intestine of a host with an imbalance of the intestinal microbiota and, in severe cases, can lead to toxic megacolon, intestinal perforation, and even death. Despite its severity and importance, however, the lack of a model to understand host-pathogen interactions and the lack of research results on host cell effects and response mechanisms under C. difficile infection remain limited. Here, we developed an in vitro anaerobic-aerobic C. difficile infection model that enables direct interaction between human gut epithelial cells and C. difficile through the Mimetic Intestinal Host–Microbe Interaction Coculture System. Additionally, an integrative multiomics approach was applied to investigate the biological changes and response mechanisms of host cells caused by C. difficile in the early stage of infection. The C. difficile infection model was validated through the induction of disaggregation of the actin filaments and disruption of the intestinal epithelial barrier as the toxin-mediated phenotypes following infection progression. In addition, an upregulation of stress-induced chaperones and an increase in the ubiquitin proteasomal pathway were identified in response to protein stress that occurred in the early stage of infection, and downregulation of proteins contained in the electron transfer chain and ATP synthase was observed. It has been demonstrated that host cell energy metabolism is inhibited through the glycolysis of Caco-2 cells and the reduction of metabolites belonging to the TCA cycle. Taken together, our C. difficile infection model suggests a new biological response pathway in the host cell induced by C. difficile during the early stage of infection at the molecular level under anaerobic-aerobic conditions. Therefore, this study has the potential to be applied to the development of future therapeutics through basic metabolic studies of C. difficile infection.

Differential tissue development compromising the growth rate and physiological performances of mussel

Differences in the food acquisition rates and in the energetic costs of metabolism seem to affect the growth rate variability of mussels. The aim of this study was to analyze if the physiological performances responsible for such growth rate variability are accompanied by structural differences at tissue or cellular level in the main organs involved in energy acquisition (gill) and processing (digestive gland). Fast growers had higher cilia density and metabolic efficiency in their gill, and well-developed digestive tissue with barely no connective tissue or atrophy. Slow-growing mussels displayed stress signs that impede the proper acquisition, digestion and absorption of food: low cilia density, low mitochondrial capacity and high antioxidant activity levels in the gills, and high atrophy of the digestive gland. The data herein explains the growth rate variability of mussels, demonstrating that morphological and functional differences exist between fast and slow growers.

Effects of cadmium stress on the morphology, physiology, cellular ultrastructure, and BvHIPP24 gene expression of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.)

To clarify the mechanism of the response of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) to cadmium (Cd) stress, this study investigated changes in the phenotype, physiological indexes, and subcellular structure of B. vulgaris under Cd treatment and the transcriptional pattern of the BvHIPP24 gene (a heavy metal-associated isoprenylated plant protein involved in heavy metal detoxification). The plant height and shoot and root growth of B. vulgaris seedlings were inhibited to some extent under 0.5 and 1 mM Cd, with gradually wilting and yellowing of leaves and dark brown roots. When the Cd concentration was increased, malondialdehyde content and the activities of peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione S-transferase increased differentially. qPCR indicated that the expression of BvHIPP24 was induced by different concentrations of Cd. Although transmission electron microscopy revealed damage to nuclei, mitochondria, and chloroplasts, B. vulgaris exhibited strong adaptability to 0.5 mM Cd according to a comprehensive analysis using the membership function. The results showed that B. vulgaris may reduce cell damage and improve its Cd tolerance by regulating functional gene expression and antioxidant enzymes. This study increases our understanding of the Cd-tolerance mechanism of B. vulgaris and provides insights into the use of B. vulgaris in Cd bioremediation.

Effects of heat shock on energy metabolism and antioxidant defence in a tropical fish species Psalidodon bifasciatus

Predictions about global warming have raised interest in assessing whether ectothermic organisms will be able to adapt to these changes. Understanding the physiological mechanisms and metabolic adjustment capacity of fish subjected to heat stress can provide subsidies that may contribute to decision-making in relation to ecosystems and organisms subjected to global climate change. This study investigated the antioxidant defence system and energy metabolism of carbohydrate and protein responses in the gill, liver and kidney tissues of Psalidodon bifasciatus (Garavello & Sampaio 2010), a Brazilian freshwater fish used in aquaculture and in biological studies, following exposure to heat shock at 31°C for 2, 6, 12, 24 and 48 h. The fish presented signs of stress in all tissues tested, as evidenced by increased lipid peroxidation concentration at 2 h and phosphofructokinase, hexokinase and malate dehydrogenase activity at 48 h in the gills; increased glutathione-S-transferase activity at 12 h, citrate synthase activity at 24 h and concentration of reduced glutathione (GSH) concentration at 12 and 48 h in the liver; and through increased activity of superoxide dismutase at 48 h, glutathione reductase at 24 h, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase at 48 h and concentration of GSH at 24 h in the kidney. In the kidneys, changes in the antioxidant system were more prominent, whereas in the gills, there were greater changes in the carbohydrate metabolism. These results indicated the importance of glycolysis and aerobic metabolism in the gills, aerobic metabolism in the liver and pentose-phosphate pathway in the kidneys during homeostasis. The biomarker response was tissue specific, with the greatest number of biomarkers altered in the gills, followed by those in the kidneys and liver.

Effect of trace elements in the toxicity of copper to Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

Copper sulfate (CuSO₄) is widely used in the control of algal blooms. Cu can promote or inhibit algal growth, while also affecting trace element uptake, therefore, the response mechanisms of algae cells under Cu²⁺ interference should be studied. In this study, wild-type Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (C. reinhardtii) and wall-less mutant C. reinhardtii were selected as the research objects. Except for the cell wall, these two algae were physiologically the same. While manipulating the concentration of Cu, the accumulation of Cu, Fe, Zn, and Mn by the two algal cell types was studied. The cell wall hindered the accumulation of Cu by cells and alleviated the toxicity of Cu to C. reinhardtii. The addition of Cu increased the accumulation of Fe by both cell types. In an environment with excess Cu, the total amount of Zn and Mn accumulated by cells also increased. On the one hand, this may be due to the synergistic and antagonistic effects of trace elements in the adsorption and uptake process, and on the other hand, it may be due to the changes in metal speciation in the culture medium. In addition, the difference in the total accumulation of various trace elements between wild-type and wall-less-type C. reinhardtii may be due to the structure and function differences between cell wall and cell membrane. At the same time, by measuring the changes in the levels of glutathione (GSH) in algal cells, the relevant mechanisms underlying the algae's uptake of trace elements by algae were further explored.

Evaluation of antioxidant response and Na+-K+-ATPase activity in zebrafish exposed to polyethylene microplastics: Shedding light on a physiological adaptation

Although the toxicity of microplastics has already been demonstrated in different animal models, our knowledge about the response of freshwater fish to this pollutant is still limited. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the impact of exposure of zebrafish adults (Danio rerio) to environmentally relevant concentrations of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) (5 and 50 µg/L) and at different times of exposure (10 and 20 days). Initially, scanning electron microscope image illustrated size and format of the particle and FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of PE-MPs in the gastrointestinal tract of fish (at both concentrations tested). Subsequently, an alteration of oxidative and antioxidant responses was evaluated in the liver and brain. The results showed that catalase (CAT) activity, in liver, was significantly decreased, as was glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) activity (on the 10th experimental day). However, after 20 days of exposure, we observed a concentration-dependent increase in GST activity in liver of the animals exposed to PE-MPs. Furthermore, the lipid peroxidation (LPO) level was significantly increased by exposure to MPs, especially in the brain, after 20 days of exposure. The increase in Na⁺-K⁺-ATPase activity in the animals' gills was correlated with the increased production of malondialdehyde (MDA), which suggests the existence of a compensatory mechanism in which the high activity of this enzyme would be necessary to regulate the loss of ions caused by the increase in the processes of LPO, which has never been previously demonstrated. Thus, our study sheds light on a new physiological adaptation to deal with the oxidative effects of PE-MPs, in addition to supporting the future use of the assessment of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase activity as a biomarker of the toxicity of these pollutants.

Molecular Dissection Unveiling Dwarfing Effects of Plant Growth Retardants on Pomegranate

Dwarfed stature is a desired trait for modern orchard production systems. One effective strategy for dwarfing cultivation is exogenously applying plant growth retardants (PGRs) to plants. However, for many economic fruit trees, the current knowledge on the regulatory mechanisms underlying the dwarfing effect of PGRs is limited, which largely restricts the agricultural application of PGRs. In this study, we exogenously applied three kinds of PGRs [paclobutrazol, daminozide (B9), and mannitol] to the seedlings of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) and performed comparative transcriptome analysis to elucidate the molecular features of PGR-induced dwarfing in pomegranates. Our results showed that all the three PGRs could significantly suppress plant growth of pomegranate. The inhibition of auxin biosynthetic processes, as well as auxin-mediated shoot development, may be considered as the main reason for the dwarfing. Besides that, different PGRs were also found to induce dwarfing via specific mechanisms, for example, cellular response to strigolactone was particularly suppressed by the application of paclobutrazol, while the level of carbohydrate homeostasis and metabolism were downregulated in conditions of either B9 or mannitol treatments. Furthermore, exogenous PGR application was supposed to cause adverse impacts on the normal physiological process of pomegranate seedlings, which may bring extra burden to pomegranate plants. These novel findings unveiled the genetic basis underlying the dwarfing in pomegranates, which provides deeper insights into PGR-mediated dwarfing cultivation of pomegranates.

All for one - changes in mitochondrial morphology and activity during syncytial oogenesis

The syncytial groups of germ cells (germ-line cysts) forming in ovaries of clitellate annelids are an attractive model to study mitochondrial stage-specific changes. Using transmission electron microscopy, serial block-face scanning electron microscopy, and fluorescent microscopy, we analyzed the mitochondria distribution and morphology and the state of membrane potential in female cysts in Enchytraeus albidus. We visualized in 3D at the ultrastructural level mitochondria in cysts at successive stages: 2-celled, 4-celled, 16-celled cysts, and cyst in advanced oogenesis. We found that mitochondria form extensive aggregates - they are fused and connected into large and branched mitochondrial networks. The most extensive networks are formed with up to 10,000 fused mitochondria, whereas individual organelles represent up to 2% of the total mitochondrial volume. We classify such morphology of mitochondria as a dynamic hyperfusion state, and suggest that it can maintain their high activity and intensifies the process of cellular respiration within the syncytial cysts. We found some individual mitochondria undergoing degradation, which implies that damaged mitochondria are removed from networks for their final elimination. As it was shown that growing oocytes possess less active mitochondria than the nurse cells, it suggests that the high activity of mitochondria in the nurse cells and their dynamic hyperfusion state serve the needs of the growing oocyte. Additionally, we measured by calorimetry the total antioxidant capacity of germ-line cysts in comparison to somatic tissue, and it suggests that antioxidative defense systems, together with mitochondrial networks, can effectively protect germ-line mitochondria from damage.

Molecular biomarkers as tool for early warning by chlorpyrifos exposure on Alpine chironomids

Pesticides used in agriculture can be transported at a medium-high distance due to the drift effect, reaching even remote areas as mountain regions, glaciers, and snow cover. With the melting process, pesticides enter freshwater glacier ecosystems, becoming a threat to wildlife fauna, mainly dominated by Diptera Chironomidae. Chlorpyrifos (CPF), as one of the most commonly used pesticides in alpine vineyards and apple orchards, is frequently detected in icemelt waters. We selected as target species, larvae of the cold stenothermal chironomid Diamesa zernyi, collected in two glacier-fed streams (Presena and Amola) in the Italian Alps. Firstly, a de novo transcriptome was obtained, and secondly, a gene array was designed to study the molecular response of a wild population of D. zernyi exposed to three sub-lethal CPF concentrations corresponding to 1/100 LC10 (0.011 μg/L), 1/10 LC10 (0.11 μg/L), and LC10 (1.1 μg/L), for 24 h. The sub-organismal response was evaluated by Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), employing 40 genes related to essential metabolic routes as future candidates for biomarkers in wildlife chironomids. After 24 h, the endocrine system (E75, E93, EcR, and Met), detoxification response (GSTO3, GSTS1), and stress response (hsp75, hsp83, HYOU1) were altered. CPF seems to act as an endocrine disruptor and could lead to defective larval development, disrupted cellular homeostasis through heat shock proteins (HSPs) alteration (defective protein folding and mitochondrial functions), as well as oxidative damage (confirmed by increased GST expression). For the first time, molecular studies detected early alarm signals in wildlife in glacier environments. Our findings confirm the high environmental risk of CPF affecting aquatic insect metabolism and raise the level of concern about this pesticide in high altitude water bodies, generally considered pristine. Furthermore, this study emphasizes the incipient need to use non-model organisms for the evaluation of natural ecosystems. We also highlight the demand for research into new molecular biomarkers, and the importance of including molecular approaches in toxicology evaluations to detect the early adverse effects of pollutants.

Fucoidan Modulated Oxidative Stress and Caspase-3 mRNA Expression Induced by Sulfoxaflor in the Brain of Mice

The current study aimed to investigate the role of fucoidan in the oxidative and apoptotic effects of sulfoxaflor, a neonicotinoid sulfoximine insecticide, in the brain of Swiss albino mice (Mus musculus). Sulfoxaflor and fucoidan were administered to mice at doses of 15 mg/kg/day (1/50 oral LD50) and 50 mg/kg/day, respectively, by oral gavage for 24 h or 7 days. The tGSH, TBARS and protein levels, and GPx, GR, and GST enzyme activities were determined by spectrophotometric methods. Caspase-3 gene expression level was determined by RT-PCR. Data analysis showed that brains of sulfoxaflor-treated mice exhibited higher TBARS levels; GPx, GR, and GST enzyme activities; and caspase-3 expression levels, as well as lower levels of tGSH. Co-administration of fucoidan and sulfoxaflor reduced the TBARS levels, increased tGSH levels, and increased GPx, GR, and GST enzyme activities. Fucoidan also decreased the sulfoxaflor-induced up-regulation of caspase-3 mRNA expression. Results of the present study showed that sulfoxaflor caused oxidative stress by inducing lipid peroxidation and altering GSH-dependent antioxidants in the brain of mice. In addition, sulfoxaflor may trigger apoptotic cell death shown by the up-regulation of caspase-3. Fucoidan treatment modulated all the aforementioned alterations in the brain of mice. It was concluded that fucoidan might have antioxidant effects that support the GSH-dependent antioxidant system and can play a modulator role in oxidative stress and caspase-3 expression in the brain of sulfoxaflor treated-mice.

Cellular level response of the bivalve Limecola balthica to seawater acidification due to potential CO2 leakage from a sub-seabed storage site in the southern Baltic Sea: TiTank experiment at representative hydrostatic pressure

Understanding of biological responses of marine fauna to seawater acidification due to potential CO₂ leakage from sub-seabed storage sites has improved recently, providing support to CCS environmental risk assessment. Physiological responses of benthic organisms to ambient hypercapnia have been previously investigated but rarely at the cellular level, particularly in areas of less common geochemical and ecological conditions such as brackish water and/or reduced oxygen levels. In this study, CO₂-related responses of oxygen-dependent, antioxidant and detoxification systems as well as markers of neurotoxicity and acid-base balance in the Baltic clam Limecola balthica from the Baltic Sea were quantified in 50-day experiments. Experimental conditions included CO₂ addition producing pH levels of 7.7, 7.0 and 6.3, respectively and hydrostatic pressure 900 kPa, simulating realistic seawater acidities following a CO₂ seepage accident at the potential CO₂-storage site in the Baltic. Reduced pH interfered with most biomarkers studied, and modifications to lactate dehydrogenase and malate dehydrogenase indicate that aerobiosis was a dominant energy production pathway. Hypercapnic stress was most evident in bivalves exposed to moderately acidic seawater environment (pH 7.0), showing a decrease of glutathione peroxidase activity, activation of catalase and suppression of glutathione S-transferase activity likely in response to enhanced free radical production. The clams subjected to pH 7.0 also demonstrated acetylcholinesterase activation that might be linked to prolonged impact of contaminants released from sediment. The most acidified conditions (pH 6.3) stimulated glutathione and malondialdehyde concentration in the bivalve tissue suggesting potential cell damage. Temporal variations of most biomarkers imply that after a 10-to-15-day initial phase of an acute disturbance, the metabolic and antioxidant defence systems recovered their capacities.

Whole-body bioconcentration and biochemical and morphological responses of gills of the neotropical fish Prochilodus lineatus exposed to 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid or fipronil individually or in a mixture

The herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and the insecticide fipronil have been used widely in agriculture and detected in aquatic ecosystems, where they threaten wildlife. This study evaluated the whole-body bioconcentration and the biochemical and morphological changes in the gills of the neotropical fish Prochilodus lineatus exposed for 96 h to 2,4-D or fipronil as single compounds or as a mixture (2,4-D + fipronil). Fish exposed to either compound alone bioconcentrated 2,4-D (77 ± 23 ng g ^- 1 fish dry mass) and fipronil (789 ± 178 ng g ^- 1 fish dry mass). Fish exposed to 2,4-D + fipronil bioconcentrated fipronil (683 ± 73 ng g ^- 1 fish dry mass) but not 2,4-D. In the gills, catalase (CAT) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activities and the lipid peroxidation (LPO) level increased after exposure to 2,4-D. GST activity increased after exposure to fipronil. Conversely, no changes occurred in CAT and GST activities and LPO upon exposure to 2,4-D + fipronil. Histopathological changes such as hyperplasia, cellular hypertrophy, epithelial lifting, and vascular congestion were frequent in the gills of fish exposed to 2,4-D or fipronil individually or 2,4-D + fipronil. The mitochondria-rich cell (MRC) density increased on gill surface in fish exposed to fipronil or 2,4-D + fipronil. Only exposure to 2,4-D alone induced oxidative stress in the gills. Most morphological changes showed defense responses against the pesticides; however, hypertrophy and the change in MRC indicated compensatory responses to maintain the gill osmoregulatory function. The 2,4-D + fipronil mixture showed antagonistic interaction, except for the MRC fractional area at gill surface, which showed synergistic interaction. This is the first report showing antagonistic interaction of 2,4-D and fipronil in the gills after exposing fish to the mixture of both pesticides. The biochemical and morphological changes in gills endanger the gill functions, a phenomenon that implies an energy cost for fish.

Evaluation of the individual and combined toxicity of perfluoroalkyl substances to human liver cells using biomarkers of oxidative stress

Although human exposure is to mixtures of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), their combined effects and underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, the combined effects of PFAS was investigated by treating human liver cells (HepG2) with various concentrations of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxS) individually or in binary combinations (PFOS + PFOA, PFOS + PFDA, PFOS + PFNA, PFOS + PFHxS, PFOA + PFDA, PFOA + PFNA, and PFOA + PFHxS) for 24 h using an orthogonal design. The individual and binary combination effects of PFAS on the cytotoxicity, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and glutathione (GSH) levels were determined by MTS assay, dichlorofluorescein diacetate assay, and GSH-Glo™ Glutathione assay, respectively. The results showed that exposure to PFOA, PFOS, PFDA, PFNA, and PFHxS individually and in binary combinations caused concentration-dependent cytotoxicity to HepG2 cells. Also, intracellular ROS production was not significantly induced in both the individual and co-treatment groups, indicating that ROS production may not be likely influencing the combined cytotoxicity of PFAS to HepG2 cells. However, the depletion of the intracellular glutathione levels was correlated with cytotoxicity. Moreover, the factorial analysis results showed no significant interactive effects between PFOS + PFOA, PFOS + PFDA, PFOS + PFNA, PFOS + PFHxS, PFOA + PFDA, PFOA + PFNA, and PFOA + PFHxS. Taken together, the results showed that both individual and combined PFAS could induce concentration-dependent cytotoxicity and depletion of GSH levels, but could not induce significant increases in ROS production at the concentration range tested. Overall, these results provided valuable toxicological data on the combined effects of mixed PFAS that may help to better assess their human health risk.

Exposure to pollutants present in Iguaçu River Southern Brazil affect the health of Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758): Assessment histological, genotoxic and biochemical

Urban sewage is a source of major contamination in aquatic systems and contributes to environmental and human health disturbances. This study investigates the effects of sewage-polluted waters from Iguaçu River on the health of juvenile Oreochromis niloticus. Two hundred four specimens were exposed to riverine water in four groups: no diluted, 25 and 50 % diluted water and a control group without tested water for 72 days. Biological samples were obtained for histopathological, neurotoxicity, antioxidant defenses, genotoxicity, metallothionines expression and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) metabolites. The results showed histopathological alterations in liver and gills, genotoxic alteration in erythrocytes, reduction of acetylcholinesterase activity in brain and muscle, activation of antioxidant defenses in the liver, recruitment of metals by metallothionein and the detection of PAHs metabolites in bile. These results demonstrate that juveniles of O. niloticus are susceptible to Iguaçu River exposure water and they can be used as indicator of water quality.

Environmental DNA and environmental RNA: Current and prospective applications for biological monitoring

Traditional environmental biomonitoring approaches have limitations in terms of species detectability and their capacity to account for spatial and temporal variation. Furthermore, as invasive techniques they can be harmful to individual organisms, populations and habitats. The application of non-invasive sampling methods that extract, isolate and identify nucleic acid sequences (i.e. DNA, RNA) from environmental matrices have significant potential for complementing, or even ultimately replacing, current methods of biological environmental assessment. These environmental DNA (eDNA) and environmental RNA (eRNA) techniques increase spatial and temporal acuity of monitoring, and in the case of the latter, may provide functional information regarding the health of individuals, and thus ecosystems. However, these assessments require robust analysis of factors such as the detectability and specificity of the developed assays. The presented work highlights the current and future uses of nucleic acid-based biomonitoring regimes, with a focus on fish and aquatic invertebrates and their utility for water quality, biodiversity and species-specific monitoring. These techniques are compared to traditional approaches, with a particular emphasis on the potential insights that could be provided by eRNA analysis, including the benefits of microRNAs as assay targets.

Plant-based and immunostimulant-enhanced diets modulate oxidative stress, immune and haematological indices in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of three commercial diets, standard, immunostimulant-supplemented (β-glucan, vitamins C and E) and plant-based, on the degree of oxidative stress in tissues of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Selected immune and haematological indices were measured and challenge with Aeromonas salmonicida was conducted. The plant-based diet systemically modulated all oxidative stress biomarkers (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances; reduced and oxidised glutathione and their ratio) in the intestine. The ratio was elevated in all organs (liver, kidney, muscle and intestine) and an enhancement of respiratory burst and complement activity was observed even in the control fish. With the standard diet, an elevation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in the intestine and a decrease in some immune indices appeared after challenge. Less distinctive changes and the lowest mortality rate (the highest being with the plant-based feed) were obtained with immunostimulants. Increased total immunoglobulin, relative lymphocytosis and a decrease in the phagocyte count were observed. This study contributes especially by a thorough examination of oxidative stress indices in different tissues. The exact composition of these commercial diets is a trade secret; however, knowledge of their effects is extremely important for fish farmers using them; therefore, this study has a great practical impact.