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de Melo MS, Das K, Gismondi E. Inorganic mercury effects on biomarker gene expressions of a freshwater amphipod at two temperatures. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 209:111815. [PMID: 33387774 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2020.111815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a global contaminant resulting of both natural processes and human activities. In aquatic environments, studies conducted on vertebrates highlighted changes of gene expression or activity of antitoxic and oxidative enzymes. However, although Hg is a highly toxic compound in aquatic environments, only a few studies have evaluated the lethal and sublethal effects of inorganic Hg on Gammarus sp. Therefore, this study aimed at evaluating the effects of inorganic Hg (HgCl2) on the expression of 17 genes involved in crucial biological functions or mechanisms for organisms, namely respiration, osmoregulation, apoptosis, immune and endocrine system, and antioxidative and antitoxic defence systems. The study was performed in males of the freshwater amphipod Gammarus pulex exposed to two environmentally relevant concentrations (50 and 500 ng/L) at two temperature regime fluctuations (16 °C and 20 °C +/-2 °C) for 7 and 21 days. Results showed that G. pulex mortality was dependent on Hg concentration and temperature; the higher the concentration and temperature, the higher the mortality rate. In addition, the Integrated Biomarker Response emphasized that HgCl2 toxicity was dependent on the concentration, time and temperature of exposure. Overall, antioxidant and antitoxic defences, as well as the endocrine and immune systems, were the biological functions most impacted by Hg exposure (based on the concentration, duration, and temperature tested). Conversely, osmoregulation was the least affected biological function. The results also demonstrated a possible adaptation of G. pulex after 21 days at 500 ng/L, regardless of the exposure temperature. This study allowed us to show that Hg deregulates many crucial biological functions after a short exposure, but that during a long exposure, an adaptation phenomenon could occur, regardless of temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madson Silveira de Melo
- Laboratório de Reprodução e Desenvolvimento Animal, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Embriologia e Genética, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil; Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Ecotoxicology (LEAE), Freshwater and Oceanic Sciences Unit of ReSearch (FOCUS), University of Liège B6c, 11 allée du 6 Août, 4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Krishna Das
- Laboratory of Oceanology, Freshwater and Oceanic Sciences Unit of ReSearch (FOCUS), University of Liège B6c, 11 Allée du 6 Août, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Eric Gismondi
- Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Ecotoxicology (LEAE), Freshwater and Oceanic Sciences Unit of ReSearch (FOCUS), University of Liège B6c, 11 allée du 6 Août, 4000, Liège, Belgium.
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2
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Garnero PL, Monferran MV, Bistoni MDLÁ. Uptake, tissue distribution and elimination in a native fish species Astyanax eigenmanniorum exposed to inorganic mercury. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2020; 226:105567. [PMID: 32745893 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2020.105567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The increasing contamination of water bodies with mercury (Hg) raises concerns about the possible effects of this metal on native fish species. Our current understanding of its dynamics in fish organs remains limited. In this study, adult individuals of the native species Astyanax eigenmanniorum were exposed to three environmentally relevant HgCl2 concentrations (5, 100, and 170 μg L-1) for 96 h. To evaluate total Hg (THg) elimination, new individuals were exposed to 100 μg L-1 of HgCl2 (96 h), and at the end of the exposure period, half of the fish were placed in tanks with clean water for 168 h. In both assays, the organs were removed, and THg levels were measured using ICP-MS. The uptake of IHg in A. eigenmanniorum showed a differential accumulation in the organs. Gills, intestine, and brain were the tissues with the highest THg levels. Finally, no elimination of THg in the water was observed, but intestine and gills significantly removed the THg accumulated. Probably a Hg redistribution through the tissues could take place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola L Garnero
- IDEA - Instituto de Diversidad y Ecología Animal (CONICET) and Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Av. Vélez Sarsfield 299 (X5000JJC), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Magdalena V Monferran
- CIBICI - Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CONICET) and Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (5000), Argentina
| | - María de Los Ángeles Bistoni
- IDEA - Instituto de Diversidad y Ecología Animal (CONICET) and Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Av. Vélez Sarsfield 299 (X5000JJC), Córdoba, Argentina.
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Yang L, Zhang Y, Wang F, Luo Z, Guo S, Strähle U. Toxicity of mercury: Molecular evidence. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 245:125586. [PMID: 31881386 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2019.125586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/08/2019] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Minamata disease in Japan and the large-scale poisoning by methylmercury (MeHg) in Iraq caused wide public concerns about the risk emanating from mercury for human health. Nowadays, it is widely known that all forms of mercury induce toxic effects in mammals, and increasing evidence supports the concern that environmentally relevant levels of MeHg could impact normal biological functions in wildlife. The information of mechanism involved in mercurial toxicity is growing but knowledge gaps still exist between the adverse effects and mechanisms of action, especially at the molecular level. A body of data obtained from experimental studies on mechanisms of mercurial toxicity in vivo and in vitro points to that disruption of the antioxidant system may play an important role in the mercurial toxic effects. Moreover, the accumulating evidence indicates that signaling transduction, protein or/and enzyme activity, and gene regulation are involving in mediating toxic and adaptive response to mercury exposure. We conducted here a comprehensive review of mercurial toxic effects on wildlife and human, in particular synthesized key findings of molecular pathways involved in mercurial toxicity from the cells to human. We discuss the molecular evidence related mercurial toxicity to the adverse effects, with particular emphasis on the gene regulation. The further studies relying on Omic analysis connected to adverse effects and modes of action of mercury will aid in the evaluation and validation of causative relationship between health outcomes and gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, 100012, Beijing, China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, 100012, Beijing, China
| | - Feifei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, 100012, Beijing, China
| | - Zidie Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, 100012, Beijing, China
| | - Shaojuan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, 100012, Beijing, China
| | - Uwe Strähle
- Toxicology and Genetics, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344, Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany
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Pereira P, Korbas M, Pereira V, Cappello T, Maisano M, Canário J, Almeida A, Pacheco M. A multidimensional concept for mercury neuronal and sensory toxicity in fish - From toxicokinetics and biochemistry to morphometry and behavior. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2019; 1863:129298. [PMID: 30768958 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2019.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Revised: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuronal and sensory toxicity of mercury (Hg) compounds has been largely investigated in humans/mammals with a focus on public health, while research in fish is less prolific and dispersed by different species. Well-established premises for mammals have been governing fish research, but some contradictory findings suggest that knowledge translation between these animal groups needs prudence [e.g. the relative higher neurotoxicity of methylmercury (MeHg) vs. inorganic Hg (iHg)]. Biochemical/physiological differences between the groups (e.g. higher brain regeneration in fish) may determine distinct patterns. This review undertakes the challenge of identifying sensitive cellular targets, Hg-driven biochemical/physiological vulnerabilities in fish, while discriminating specificities for Hg forms. SCOPE OF REVIEW A functional neuroanatomical perspective was conceived, comprising: (i) Hg occurrence in the aquatic environment; (ii) toxicokinetics on central nervous system (CNS)/sensory organs; (iii) effects on neurotransmission; (iv) biochemical/physiological effects on CNS/sensory organs; (v) morpho-structural changes on CNS/sensory organs; (vi) behavioral effects. The literature was also analyzed to generate a multidimensional conceptualization translated into a Rubik's Cube where key factors/processes were proposed. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS Hg neurosensory toxicity was unequivocally demonstrated. Some correspondence with toxicity mechanisms described for mammals (mainly at biochemical level) was identified. Although the research has been dispersed by numerous fish species, 29 key factors/processes were pinpointed. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE Future trends were identified and translated into 25 factors/processes to be addressed. Unveiling the neurosensory toxicity of Hg in fish has a major motivation of protecting ichtyopopulations and ecosystems, but can also provide fundamental knowledge to the field of human neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Pereira
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Malgorzata Korbas
- Science Division, Canadian Light Source Inc., Saskatoon, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Vitória Pereira
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Tiziana Cappello
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno d'Alcontres 31, Messina 98166, Italy
| | - Maria Maisano
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno d'Alcontres 31, Messina 98166, Italy
| | - João Canário
- Centro de Química Estrutural, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, Lisboa 1049-001, Portugal
| | - Armando Almeida
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine (EM), University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, Braga 4750-057, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal
| | - Mário Pacheco
- Department of Biology and CESAM, University of Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal.
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Dolci GS, Vey LT, Schuster AJ, Roversi K, Roversi K, Dias VT, Pase CS, Barcelos RCS, Antoniazzi CTD, Golombieski JI, Glanzner WG, Anezi Junior PA, Gonçalves PBD, Nunes MAG, Dressler VL, Baldisserotto B, Burger ME. Hypoxia acclimation protects against oxidative damage and changes in prolactin and somatolactin expression in silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen) exposed to manganese. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2014; 157:175-185. [PMID: 25456232 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2014.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Revised: 10/17/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the Mn toxicity to silver catfish considering Mn accumulation and oxidative status in different tissues, as well as pituitary hormone expression after acclimation to hypoxia. Silver catfish acclimated to hypoxia for 10 days and successively exposed to Mn (9.8 mg L(-1)) for an additional 10 days exhibited lower Mn accumulation in plasma, liver, kidneys and brain and prevented the hematocrit decrease observed in the normoxia group. Hypoxia acclimation also modified Mn-induced oxidative damage, which was observed by lower reactive species (RS) generation in gills and kidneys, decreased lipid peroxidation (LP) levels in gills, liver and kidneys and decreased protein carbonyl (PC) levels in liver, kidneys and brain. Manganese accumulation showed positive correlations with LP levels in gills and kidneys, as well as with PC levels in gills, liver and brain. In addition, hypoxia acclimation and Mn exposure increased catalase (CAT) activity in gills and kidneys and Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity in gills, liver and brain. Silver catfish that were acclimated under normoxia and exposed to Mn displayed increased pituitary prolactin (PRL) and decreased somatolactin (SL) expression. Interestingly, hypoxia acclimation prevented hormonal fluctuation of PRL and SL in fish exposed to Mn. These findings indicate that while the exposure of silver catfish to Mn under normoxia was related to metal accumulation and oxidative damage in tissues together with endocrine axis disruption, as represented by PRL and SL, hypoxia acclimation reduced waterborne Mn uptake, thereby minimizing oxidative damage and changes in hormonal profile. We hypothesized that moderate hypoxia is able to generate adaptive responses, which may be related to hormesis, thereby ameliorating Mn toxicity to silver catfish.
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Affiliation(s)
- G S Dolci
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Farmacologia - UFSM, Brazil
| | - L T Vey
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Farmacologia - UFSM, Brazil
| | - A J Schuster
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Farmacologia - UFSM, Brazil
| | - Kr Roversi
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Farmacologia - UFSM, Brazil
| | - K Roversi
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Farmacologia - UFSM, Brazil
| | - V T Dias
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Farmacologia - UFSM, Brazil
| | - C S Pase
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Farmacologia - UFSM, Brazil
| | - R C S Barcelos
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Farmacologia - UFSM, Brazil
| | | | | | - W G Glanzner
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Medicina Veterinária - UFSM, Brazil
| | - P A Anezi Junior
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Química - UFSM, Brazil; Departamento de Clínica de Grandes Animais - UFSM, Brazil
| | - P B D Gonçalves
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Química - UFSM, Brazil; Programa de Pós Graduação em Medicina Veterinária - UFSM, Brazil; Departamento de Clínica de Grandes Animais - UFSM, Brazil
| | - M A G Nunes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Química - UFSM, Brazil; Departamento de Clínica de Grandes Animais - UFSM, Brazil
| | - V L Dressler
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Química - UFSM, Brazil; Departamento de Clínica de Grandes Animais - UFSM, Brazil
| | - B Baldisserotto
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Farmacologia - UFSM, Brazil; Departamento de Fisiologia e Farmacologia - UFSM, Brazil
| | - M E Burger
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Farmacologia - UFSM, Brazil; Departamento de Fisiologia e Farmacologia - UFSM, Brazil.
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6
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Poopal RK, Ramesh M, Dinesh B. Short-term mercury exposure on Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity and ionoregulation in gill and brain of an Indian major carp, Cirrhinus mrigala. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2013; 27:70-5. [PMID: 22944584 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2012.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2011] [Revised: 04/20/2012] [Accepted: 06/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Recently mercury pollution has been increased considerably in aquatic resources throughout the world and it is a growing global concern. In this study, the 96 h LC50 value of waterborne mercuric chloride for Cirrhinus mrigala was found to be 0.34 mg/L (with 95% confidence limits). Fingerlings of C. mrigala were exposed to 0.068 and 0.034 mg/L of mercuric chloride for 96 h to assess the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity and ionoregulation (Na(+), K(+) and Cl(-)) in gill and brain. Results showed that Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity and ionic levels (Na(+), K(+) and Cl(-)) in gill and brain of fish exposed to different concentrations of mercuric chloride were found to be significantly (p<0.05) decreased throughout the study period. Mercury inactivates many enzymes by attaching to sulfur atoms in which the enzyme Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase is highly sensitive to mercury. The inhibition of gill and brain Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity might have resulted from the physicochemical alteration of the membrane due to mercury toxicity. Moreover, inhibition of Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase may affect the ion transport and osmoregulatory function by blocking the transport of substances across the membrane by active transport. The present study indicates that the alterations in these parameters can be used in environmental biomonitoring of mercury contamination in aquatic ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rama Krishnan Poopal
- Unit of Toxicology, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
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7
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Mercury toxicity on sodium pump and organoseleniums intervention: a paradox. J Biomed Biotechnol 2012; 2012:924549. [PMID: 22927724 PMCID: PMC3425867 DOI: 10.1155/2012/924549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2012] [Accepted: 07/01/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mercury is an environmental poison, and the damage to living system is generally severe. The severity of mercury poisoning is consequent from the fact that it targets the thiol-containing enzymes, irreversibly oxidizing their critical thiol groups, consequently leading to an inactivation of the enzyme. The Na+/K+-ATPase is a sulfhydryl protein that is sensitive to Hg2+ assault. On the other hand, organoseleniums are a class of pharmacologically promising compounds with potent antioxidant effects. While Hg2+ oxidizes sulfhydryl groups of Na+/K+-ATPase under in vitro and in vivo conditions, the organoselenium compounds inhibit Na+/K+-ATPase in vitro but enhance its activities under in vivo conditions with concomitant increase in the level of endogenous thiols. Paradoxically, it appears that these two thiol oxidants can be used to counteract one another under in vivo conditions, and this hypothesis serves as the basis for this paper.
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9
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Huang CF, Liu SH, Hsu CJ, Lin-Shiau SY. Neurotoxicological effects of low-dose methylmercury and mercuric chloride in developing offspring mice. Toxicol Lett 2010; 201:196-204. [PMID: 21195143 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2010.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2010] [Revised: 12/16/2010] [Accepted: 12/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mercury is a well-known toxic metal and potently induces severe neurotoxicological effects, especially in infants and children. The purpose of this study was to explore the underlying mechanisms of neurotoxic effects of mercurial compounds on the different stages of developing mice. Low-doses (the probability of human exposure in mercury-contaminated areas) of methylmercury (MeHg) (M, 0.02mg/kg/day) and mercury chloride (HgCl(2)) (H, 0.5mg/kg/day) were administered to mice of the following groups: (1) treatment with distilled water for 7 consecutive weeks after weaning (control-vehicle (CV)); exposure to mercurial compounds at different stages; (2) for 7 consecutive weeks after weaning (control-MeHg (CM) and control-HgCl(2) (CH)); (3) only during perinatal and weaning stages (MeHg-vehicle (MV) and HgCl-vehicle (HV)); and (4) in all experimental stages (MeHg-MeHg (MM) and HgCl(2)-HgCl(2) (HH)). Results revealed the neurobehavioral defects (increased locomotor activities, motor equilibrium impairment, and auditory dysfunction) that correlated with increasing Hg accumulation in CM and CH groups. However, it revealed a decrease and an increase in locomotor activities in MV and HV groups, respectively; these became more severe in MM and HH groups than in MV and HV groups. Motor equilibrium performance in MV and HV groups remained normal, while that in MM and HH groups was decreased. The most severe auditory defects (altered auditory brainstem response, ABR test) found in MM and HH groups than those in the respective CM and CH, MV and HV, including absolute wave III delays and interwave I-III latencies, which suggested that the irreversible auditory dysfunction caused by mercurial compounds. Furthermore, the alteration of lipid peroxidation (LPO), Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activities, and nitric oxide (NO(x)) in the brain tissues contributed to the observed neurobehavioral dysfunction and hearing impairment. These findings provide evidence that fetuses were much more susceptible to the effects of mercurial compounds with regard to inducing severely neurotoxicological injuries as that found in human beings. The signaling of ROS/Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase/NO(x) plays a crucial role in the underlying mechanism for mercurial compound-induced toxic effects in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Fa Huang
- School of Chinese Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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10
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Monteiro DA, Rantin FT, Kalinin AL. Inorganic mercury exposure: toxicological effects, oxidative stress biomarkers and bioaccumulation in the tropical freshwater fish matrinxã, Brycon amazonicus (Spix and Agassiz, 1829). ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2010; 19:105-123. [PMID: 19636703 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-009-0395-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2009] [Accepted: 07/16/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Alterations in the antioxidant cellular system have often been proposed as biomarkers of pollutant-mediated toxicity. This study evaluated the effects of mercury on oxidative stress biomarkers and bioaccumulation in the liver, gills, white muscle and heart of the freshwater fish matrinxã, Brycon amazonicus, exposed to a nominal and sub-lethal concentration (~20% of 96 h-LC(50)) of 0.15 mg L(-1) of mercury chloride (HgCl(2)) for 96 h in a static system. Increases in superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and glutathione reductase (GR) were observed in all tissues after HgCl(2) exposure, except for white muscle GR activity and hepatic GPx. In the liver and gills, the exposure to HgCl(2) also induced significant increases in reduced glutathione (GSH). Conversely, exposure to HgCl(2) caused a significant decrease in the GSH levels and an increase in the oxidized glutathione (GSSG) content in the white muscle, while both GSH and GSSG levels increased significantly in the heart muscle. Metallothionein concentrations were significantly high after HgCl(2) exposure in the liver, gills and heart, but remained at control values in the white muscle. HgCl(2) exposure induced oxidative damage, increasing the lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyl content in all tissues. Mercury accumulated significantly in all the fish tissue. The pattern of accumulation follows the order gills > liver >> heart > white muscle. In conclusion, these data suggest that oxidative stress in response to inorganic mercury exposure could be the main pathway of toxicity induced by this metal in fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Amaral Monteiro
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of São Carlos, UFSCar, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
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11
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Zhang J, Zuo Z, Chen R, Chen Y, Wang C. Tributyltin exposure causes brain damage in Sebastiscus marmoratus. CHEMOSPHERE 2008; 73:337-343. [PMID: 18644613 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2008.05.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2007] [Revised: 05/03/2008] [Accepted: 05/27/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Tributyltin (TBT) is a ubiquitous marine environmental contaminant characterized primarily by its reproductive toxicity. However, the neurotoxic effect of TBT has not been extensively described, especially in fishes which have a high number of species in the marine environment. This study was conducted to investigate the neurotoxic effects of TBT at environmental levels (1, 10, and 100ngl(-1)) on female Sebastiscus marmoratus. The results showed that TBT exposure induced apoptosis in brain cells of three regions including the pallial areas of the telencephalon, the granular layer of the optic tectum, and the cerebellum. In addition, the increase of reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide levels, and the decrease of Na+/K+-ATPase activity were found in the brain. The results strongly indicated neurotoxicity of TBT to fishes. According to the regions in which apoptosis was found in the brain, TBT exposure might influence the schooling, sensory and motorial functions of fishes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiliang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
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12
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Ototoxicity induced by cinnabar (a naturally occurring HgS) in mice through oxidative stress and down-regulated Na+/K+-ATPase activities. Neurotoxicology 2008; 29:386-96. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2008.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2007] [Revised: 01/11/2008] [Accepted: 01/25/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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13
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Parvez S, Sayeed I, Raisuddin S. Decreased gill ATPase activities in the freshwater fish Channa punctata (Bloch) exposed to a diluted paper mill effluent. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2006; 65:62-6. [PMID: 16122799 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2005.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2004] [Revised: 06/15/2005] [Accepted: 07/09/2005] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Aquatic habitat is affected by paper mill effluent discharge in many ways. The effect of paper mill effluent on the gill ATPases was studied in freshwater fish Channa punctata (Bloch) exposed to 1%(v/v) of effluent for 15, 30, and 60 days. There was a time-dependent significant (P<0.05-0.001) decrease in all the ATPase activities measured, viz., total, Na(+), K(+)--and ouabain-insensitive ATPase in gill. ATPases play an important role in maintenance of functional integrity of plasma membrane and in several intracellular functions and are considered to be a sensitive indicator of toxicity. In addition to this, branchial ATPases are intimately involved in osmoregulation, acid-base regulation, and respiration of fish. The inhibition of ATPases in gills by, e.g., paper mill effluent could cause disruption of these processes. It is suggested that measurement of ATPases could also be used as a surrogate biomarker of exposure to chemical pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suhel Parvez
- Department of Neurology, University of Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, D-39120 Magdeburg, Germany.
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14
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Gonzalez P, Dominique Y, Massabuau JC, Boudou A, Bourdineaud JP. Comparative effects of dietary methylmercury on gene expression in liver, skeletal muscle, and brain of the zebrafish (Danio rerio). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2005; 39:3972-80. [PMID: 15984772 DOI: 10.1021/es0483490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Effects of dietary methylmercury (MeHg) on gene expression were examined in three organs (liver, skeletal muscle, and brain) of the zebrafish (Danio rerio). Adult male fish were fed over 7, 21, and 63 days on three different diets: one control diet (C0: 0.08 microg of Hg g(-1), dry wt) and two diets (C1 and C2) contaminated by MeHg at 5 and 13.5 microg of Hg g(-1), dry wt. Total Hg and MeHg concentrations were determined in the three organs after each exposure duration, and a demethylation process was evidenced only in the liver. Thirteen genes known to be involved in antioxidant defenses, metal chelation, active efflux of organic compounds, mitochondrial metabolism, DNA repair, and apoptosis were investigated by quantitative real-time RT-PCR and normalized according to actin gene expression. Surprisingly, no change in the expression levels of these genes was observed in contaminated brain samples, although this organ accumulated the highest mercury concentration (63.5 +/- 4.4 microg g(-1), dry wt after 63 days). This lack of genetic response could explain the high neurotoxicity of MeHg. coxI and cytoplasmic and mitochondrial sod gene expressions were induced early in skeletal muscle and later in liver, indicating an impact on the mitochondrial metabolism and production of reactive oxygen species. Results demonstrated that skeletal muscle was not only an important storage reservoir but was also affected by MeHg contamination. The expression of the metallothionein mt2 and the DNA repair rad51 genes was up-regulated in liver between 21 and 63 days, whereas in skeletal muscle, mt2 remained uninduced, and gadd and rad51 were found to be repressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Gonzalez
- Laboratoire d'Ecophysiologie et Ecotoxicologie des Systèmes Aquatiques, Université Bordeaux 1/UMR CNRS 5805, Place du Dr Peyneau, 33120 Arcachon, France
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Pandey S, Kumar R, Sharma S, Nagpure NS, Srivastava SK, Verma MS. Acute toxicity bioassays of mercuric chloride and malathion on air-breathing fish Channa punctatus (Bloch). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2005; 61:114-120. [PMID: 15814317 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2004.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2003] [Revised: 05/06/2004] [Accepted: 08/12/2004] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Acute toxicity tests (96 h) were conducted in flow-through systems to determine the lethal toxicity of a heavy metal compound, mercuric chloride, and an organophosphorus pesticide, malathion, to air-breathing teleost fish, Channa punctatus (Bloch) and to study their behavior. The 96-h LC50 values were determined, as well as safe levels. The results indicate that mercuric chloride is more toxic than malathion to the fish species under study. Dose- and dose-time-dependent increases in mortality rate were also observed in response to both test chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay Pandey
- National Bureau of Fish Genetics Resources, Canal Ring Road, Telibagh, P.O.-Dilkusha, Lucknow-226 002, India
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Berntssen MHG, Aatland A, Handy RD. Chronic dietary mercury exposure causes oxidative stress, brain lesions, and altered behaviour in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) parr. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2003; 65:55-72. [PMID: 12932701 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-445x(03)00104-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) parr were fed for 4 months on fish meal based diets supplemented with mercuric chloride (0, 10, or 100 mg Hg kg(-1) DW) or methylmercury chloride (0, 5, or 10 mg Hg kg(-1) DW) to assess the effects of inorganic (Hg) and organic dietary mercury on brain lipid peroxidation and neurotoxicity. Lipid peroxidative products, endogenous anti oxidant enzymes, brain histopathology, and overall behaviour were measured. Methylmercury accumulated significantly in the brain of fish fed 5 or 10 mg kg(-1) by the end of the experiment, and inorganic mercury accumulated significantly in the brain only at 100 mg kg(-1) exposure levels. No mortality or growth reduction was observed in any of the exposure groups. Fish fed 5 mg kg(-1) methylmercury had a significant increase (2-fold) in the antioxidant enzyme super oxide dismutase (SOD) in the brain. At dietary levels of 10 mg kg(-1) methylmercury, a significant increase (7-fold) was observed in lipid peroxidative products (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS) and a subsequently decrease (1.5-fold) in anti oxidant enzyme activity (SOD and glutathione peroxidase, GSH-Px). Fish fed 10 mg kg(-1) methylmercury also had pathological damage (vacoulation and necrosis), significantly reduced neural enzyme activity (5-fold reduced monoamine oxidase, MAO, activity), and reduced overall post-feeding activity behaviour. Pathological injury started in the brain stem and became more widespread in other areas of the brain at higher exposure levels. Fish fed 100 mg Hg kg(-1) inorganic mercury had significant reduced neural MAO activity and pathological changes (astrocyte proliferation) in the brain, however, neural SOD and GSH-Px enzyme activity, lipid peroxidative products (TBARS), and post feeding behaviour did not differ from controls. Compared with other organs, the brain is particular susceptible for dietary methylmercury induced lipid peroxidative stress at relative low exposure concentrations. Doses of dietary methylmercury in the range of 5 mg kg(-1) induces protective redox defences in the brain as seen from the induction of anti-oxidant enzyme SOD activity. However, above a threshold of 10 mg kg(-1) methylmercury these defences are overcome and lipid peroxidative injury (TBARS) as well as severe pathological damage and adverse behaviour become apparent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc H G Berntssen
- National Institute for Nutrition and Seafood Research, P.O. Box 176, N-5804 Bergen, Norway.
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Pettersen AJ, Andersen RA, Zachariassen KE. Effects of dietary intake of trace metals on tissue contents of sodium and calcium in mice (Mus musculus). Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2002; 132:53-60. [PMID: 12039684 DOI: 10.1016/s1532-0456(02)00044-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Mice were given either cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu) or zinc (Zn) ad lib, and levels of the metals in the heart, kidneys and liver were measured together with organ contents of sodium (Na) and calcium (Ca). The contents of Cd increased more than 100-fold in all organs, whereas Zn increased by a factor of 2-4. Copper accumulated only in the liver. Cadmium exposure caused the Na and Ca contents in the kidneys to increase by a factor of 2-3, but caused a statistically significant reduction in the Na content of the liver. Cadmium also caused a reduction in the Ca content of the heart. Copper caused a statistically significant doubling of the Na content in the heart, but a significant reduction in the Ca content in this organ. Zinc caused a reduction in the Ca content of the heart. However, the mechanisms behind these effects are not clear. The accumulation of Cd in the kidneys and heart was associated with a gradual change in the Na and Ca levels in these organs, but trace metal accumulation was not associated with any conspicuous changes in the Na or Ca contents in any other organ. Copper was not accumulated in heart, but Cu intake still had marked effects on the Na and Ca contents in this organ. Since the tissue contents of Na and Ca are likely to be physiologically important, these ions may have potential as biomarkers for toxic stress. Since the effects of Cd and Cu differed markedly, the tissue contents of Na and Ca may also be used in a trace metal-specific system of fingerprint biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aslaug-Johanne Pettersen
- Laboratory of Ecophysiology and Toxicology, Department of Zoology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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Baatrup E. Structural and functional effects of heavy metals on the nervous system, including sense organs, of fish. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY. C, COMPARATIVE PHARMACOLOGY AND TOXICOLOGY 1991; 100:253-7. [PMID: 1677859 DOI: 10.1016/0742-8413(91)90163-n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
1. Today, fish in the environment are inevitably exposed to chemical pollution. Although most hazardous substances are present at concentrations far below the lethal level, they may still cause serious damage to the life processes of these animals. 2. Fish depend on an intact nervous system, including their sense organs, for mediating relevant behaviour such as food search, predator recognition, communication and orientation. 3. Unfortunately, the nervous system is most vulnerable and injuries to its elements may dramatically change the behaviour and consequently the survival of fish. 4. Heavy metals are well known pollutants in the aquatic environment. Their interaction with relevant chemical stimuli may interfere with the communication between fish and environment. 5. The affinity for a number of ligands and macromolecules makes heavy metals most potent neurotoxins. 6. The present Mini-Review highlights some aspects of how trace concentrations of mercury, copper and lead affect the integrity of the fish nervous system; structurally, physiologically and biochemically.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Baatrup
- Institute of Zoology and Zoophysiology, University of Aarhus, Denmark
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