Microcystin accumulation and antioxidant responses in the freshwater clam Diplodon chilensis patagonicus upon subchronic exposure to toxic Microcystis aeruginosa

Effects of pH and salinity on survival, growth, and enzyme activities in juveniles of the sunray surf clam (Mactra chinensis Philippi)

The study investigated the impact of salinity and pH changes on the survival, growth, and antioxidant enzyme activity in Mactra chinensis Philippi (1.00 ± 0.10 cm shell length, 0.75 ± 0.04 cm shell height), a marine clam species. Juveniles were exposed to various pH levels (5.4 - 9.6) and salinities (5 - 35 psu) for up to 20 days at 19 ± 0.5 ˚C. The individual effect of salinity and pH on juveniles were evaluated under pH 8.0 and salinity 30 psu, respectively. The results indicated that the highest survival rates were observed at pH 8.0 (85%, salinity = 30 psu) and salinity 30 psu (95%, pH = 8.0). The survival rates were significantly reduced at extreme pH (≤ 7.2; ≥ 8.4) and salinities (≤ 15; 35 psu). Additionally, oxidative stress was observed in clams exposed to low pH and salinity as indicated by the decreased activities of the antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Notably, no significant difference in relative growth rates was observed between salinity 25 and 30 psu, between pH 7.8/8.4 and pH 8.0. Our results provide information on potential impact of pH and salinity changes on economically important bivalve species and may be used to optimize pH and salinity in aquaculture.

State-of-the-art review on the ecotoxicology, health hazards, and economic loss of the impact of microcystins and their ultrastructural cellular changes

Cyanobacteria are ubiquitously globally present in both freshwater and marine environments. Ample reports have been documented by researchers worldwide for pros and cons of cyanobacterial toxins. The implications of cyanobacterial toxin on health have received much attention in recent decades. Microcystins (MCs) represent the unique class of toxic metabolites produced by cyanobacteria. Although the beneficial aspects of cyanobacterial are numerous, the deleterious effect of MCs overlooked. Several studies on MCs evidently reported that MCs exhibit a plethora of harmful effect on animals, plants, and cell lines. Accordingly, numerous histopathological studies have also found that MCs cause detrimental effects to cells by damaging cellular organelles, including nuclear envelope, Golgi apparatus, endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, plastids, flagellum, pilus membrane structures and integrity, vesicle structures, and autolysosomes and autophagosomes. Such ultrastructural cellular damages holistically influence the morphological, biochemical, physiological, and genetic status of the host. Indeed, MCs have also been found to cause the deleterious effect to different animals and plants. Such deleterious effects of MCs have greater impact on agriculture, public health which in turn influences ecotoxicology and economic consequences. The impairments correspond to oxidative stress, organ failure, carcinogenesis, aquaculture loss, with an emphasis for blooms and respective bioaccumulation prospects. The preservation of mortality among life forms is addressed in a critical cellular perspective for multitude benefits. The comprehensive cellular assessment could provide opportunity to develop strategy for therapeutic implications.

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.

Oxidative stress responses in brackish water flea exposed to microcystin-LR and algal bloom waters from Nakdong River, Republic of Korea

Microcystis blooms and the impact of their toxins, particularly microcystin (MC), in coastal ecosystems is an emerging threat, but the species-specific effects of MC and the potential for bioconcentration are not fully understood. We exposed the brackish water flea, Diaphanosoma celebensis, to MC-LR, which showed antioxidant responses measured at the molecular to enzyme levels but no acute toxicity. We extended our experimental investigation to measure the released MC and its uptake by D. celebensis exposed to river water. In a short-term exposure (48 h) experiment, D. celebensis exposed to water from an algal bloom (approximately 2 μg L^-1 MC) assimilated more than 50 pg MC per individual. The significant increase of MCs suggests the potential for the species to accumulate MCs. The dose-dependent increase in the antioxidant response observed in the mRNA levels also showed that D. celebensis exposed to diluted algal bloom waters were affected by toxins from cyanobacteria.

Toxin accumulation, detoxification and oxidative stress in bivalve (Anomalocardia flexuosa) exposed to the dinoflagellate Prorocentrum lima

Prorocentrum lima is a cosmopolitan benthic dinoflagellate capable of producing the diarrhetic shellfish toxins (DSTs) okadaic acid (OA) and dinophysistoxin (DTX). These compounds may cause oxidative stress and accumulate in bivalve tissues, which become vectors of intoxication to human consumers. We investigated DST accumulation, detoxification and oxidative stress biomarkers in clams (Anomalocardia flexuosa) experimentally exposed to P. lima cells or their compounds. Experimental diets consisted of 6000 cells mL-1 of the non-toxic chlorophyte Tetraselmis sp. (C; control condition), and combinations of C with 10 P. lima cells mL-1 (T10), 100 P. lima cells mL-1 (T100), or to a toxin concentration of ∼4 μg OA L-1 and ∼0.65 μg DTX-1 L-1 (T100d). Clams were exposed to these diets for 7 days (uptake phase), followed by a 7-day depuration period. No DSTs were detected in clams exposed to treatments C (control) nor to T100d (dissolved compounds) during either uptake or detoxification phase. Conversely, clams exposed to T10 or T100 accumulated, on average, up to 2.5 and 35 μg DST kg-1 in their whole bodies at the end of the uptake phase. These concentrations are ∼64 and ∼4.5 times lower than the regulatory level of 160 μg OA kg-1, respectively. Accumulated OA quotas were 12-22 times higher in the digestive gland (DG) than in remaining tissues over the uptake phase. Quick toxin transformation was indicated by the early detection of conjugated compounds - DTX-1 and OA esters - in the DG after 6 h of exposure, with OA-ester representing the main compound (30 - 100 %) in that tissue over the experiment. During the depuration period, detoxification rates represented 0.024 h-1, 0.04 h-1 and 0.052 h-1 for OA, DTX-1 and OA-ester, respectively. The activities of catalase, glutathione S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase and the levels of oxidative stress by lipoperoxidation varied similarly in the DG of A. flexuosa individuals subjected to T100, T100d and the control condition. However, contrasting antioxidant responses were measured in those exposed to T10. These findings indicate that no oxidative stress was primarily induced by DST-producing dinoflagellates in this clam species under laboratory conditions representative of toxic bloom situations. Even though, possible interactions should be considered under multistressor scenarios.

Antioxidant responses of triangle sail mussel Hyriopsis cumingii exposed to toxic Microcystis aeruginosa and thermal stress

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) and thermal stress as climate changes become more common in global water ecosystem, especially under eutrophic habitats. Here our study examined the combined impacts of bloom forming cyanobacteria Microcystis aeruginosa and thermal stress on the antioxidant responses of the ecologically important species triangle sail mussel Hyriopsis cumingii. The differential responses of a series of enzymes, e.g. superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST), as well as signal metabolites including reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) involved in antioxidant defense mechanisms were analyzed during 14 d exposure to toxic cyanobacterium M. aeruginosa and 7 d depuration period. The activities of SOD and GPx as well as the content of ROS and MDA in H. cumingii increased, while CAT activity reduced due to M. aeruginosa exposure. Thermal stress resulted in decrease of CAT, the accumulation of GSH and the enhance of GST and SOD. Meanwhile, the interactive effects among M. aeruginosa, thermal stress and time were also observed on most parameters except for GST activity. The total amount of microcystins (MC) in sail mussels increased with concentrations of exposed M. aeruginosa, independently of the presence or absence of thermal stress. Although around 50% of MC in mussels dropped in the depuration period, most parameters showed alterations because of cyanobacteria exposure and thermal stress. Overall, these findings suggested that toxic cyanobacteria or thermal stress induces oxidative stress and severely affects the enzymes activities and intermediates level associated with antioxidant defense mechanisms in sail mussels respectively. More importantly, the toxic impacts on sail mussels could be intensified by their combination.

Effects of Mixed Allelochemicals on the Growth of Microcystis aeruginosa, Microcystin Production, Extracellular Polymeric Substances, and Water Quality

The inhibition of cyanobacteria growth by allelochemicals, which controls harmful algal blooms has been examined in many studies. The objective of this work was to compare the efficiencies of different allelochemicals and determine a mixing proportion corresponding to the highest algae inhibiting activity and smallest adverse effect. The obtained results demonstrated that artemisinin, nonanoic acid, malonic acid, and ethyl acetate inhibited algal growth more efficiently than D-menthol and lactic acid. Synergies were observed in five groups of allelochemical combinations with inhibition ratios exceeding 80%, and the concentrations of extracellular microcystin-LR in the groups with high algal inhibition ratios were lower than that in the control group on the 7th day. No changes in extracellular polymeric substances compositions were detected after treatment. The permanganate indices of the treated groups were higher than that of the control group; however, this disparity gradually decreased with time. In addition, a sharp decrease in the concentration of dissolved inorganic phosphorus was observed for all treated groups. From the obtained data, the optimal proportion of mixed allelochemicals corresponding to 3.94 mg L−1 of artemisinin, 6.27 mg L−1 of nonanoic acid, 8.2 mg L−1 of malonic acid, and 6.38 mg L−1 of ethyl acetate was suggested.

Antioxidant responses of triangle sail mussel Hyriopsis cumingii exposed to harmful algae Microcystis aeruginosa and high pH

In lakes and reservoirs, harmful algal blooms and high pH have been deemed to be two important stressors related to eutrophication, especially in the case of CO₂ depletion caused by dense blooms. However, the effects of these stressors on the economically important shellfish that inhabit these waters are still not well-understood. This study evaluated the combined effects of the harmful algae Microcystis aeruginosa (0%, 50%, and 100% of total dietary dry weight) and high pH (8.0, 8.5 and 9.0) on the antioxidant responses of the triangle sail mussel H. cumingii. The mussels were exposed to algae and high pH for 14 d, followed by a 7-day depuration period. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the mussel hemolymph, antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes, such as glutathione-S-transferase (GST), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the digestive glands were analyzed during the experimental period. GST, SOD and GPx activity levels and the content of GSH increased following exposure to toxic M. aeruginosa, whereas CAT activity was inhibited. pH showed no significant effects on the immune defense mechanisms and detoxification processes. However, a high pH could cause increased ROS and MDA levels, resulting in oxidative injury. After a 7-day depuration period, exposure to toxic M. aeruginosa or high pH resulted in latent effects for most of the examined parameters. The treatment group exposed to the highest pH (9.0) displayed an increased oxidation state compared with the other pH treatments (8.0 and 8.5) for the same concentrations of toxic M. aeruginosa. The trends observed for ROS, MDA, GPx, GST, SOD and GSH levels indicated that a high density of toxic algae could result in severe and continuous effects on mussel health.

Combined effects of toxic Microcystis aeruginosa and hypoxia on the digestive enzyme activities of the triangle sail mussel Hyriopsis cumingii

Nowadays, eutrophication is a very popular environmental problem in numerous waters around the world. The main reason of eutrophication is the enrichment of the nutrient, which results in the excessive growth of phytoplankton and some of them are toxic and harmful. Fortunately, some studies have shown that some bivalves can filter the overgrown phytoplankton in water, which may alleviate water eutrophication. However, the physiological effects of toxic cyanobacteria on filter feeding animal have not been clarified very well. In this experiment, digestive enzyme activities in Hyriopsis cumingii exposed to different concentrations of the toxic Microcystis aeruginosa (0, 5 * 10⁵ and 5 *10⁶ cell ml^-1) at two dissolved oxygen (DO) levels (6 and 2 mg l^-1) for 14 days were investigated. Toxic M. aeruginosa significantly affected all digestive enzyme activities throughout the experiment. At high toxic M. aeruginosa concentration, the activities of cellulase, amylase and lipase in digestive gland and stomach were significantly increased (P<0.05). However, hypoxia reduced the activities of cellulase, amylase and lipase in digestive gland and stomach. Conflicting effects were observed between toxic M. aeruginosa and DO in most digestive enzyme activities during the exposure period. Therefore, it is not conducive for the digestion and absorption of M. aeruginosa in H. cumingii under hypoxic conditions. H. cumingii is tolerant to toxic M. aeruginosa and may remove toxic cyanobacteria from waters under normal DO conditions.

Influence of mixed antibiotics on Microcystis aeruginosa during the application of glyphosate and hydrogen peroxide algaecides

Antibiotics regulate various physiological functions in cyanobacteria and may interfere with the control of cyanobacterial blooms during the application of algaecides. In this study, Microcystis aeruginosa was exposed to H2 O2 and glyphosate for 7 d in the presence of coexisting mixed antibiotics (amoxicillin, spiramycin, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, and sulfamethoxazole) at an environmentally relevant concentration of 100 ng · L-1 . The mixed antibiotics significantly (P < 0.05) alleviated the growth inhibition effect of 15-45 μM H2 O2 and 40-60 mg · L-1 glyphosate. According to the increased contents of chlorophyll a and protein, decreased content of malondialdehyde, and decreased activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione S-transferase, antibiotics may reduce the toxicity of the two algaecides through the stimulation of photosynthesis and the reduction in oxidative stress. The presence of coexisting antibiotics stimulated the production and release of microcystins in the M. aeruginosa exposed to low concentrations of algaecides and posed an increased threat to aquatic environments. To eliminate the secondary pollution caused by microcystins, high algaecide doses that are ≥45 μM for H2 O2 and ≥60 mg · L-1 for glyphosate are recommended. This study provides insights into the ecological hazards of antibiotic contaminants and the best management practices for cyanobacterial removal under combined antibiotic pollution conditions.

Cyanobacterial effects in Lake Ludoš, Serbia - Is preservation of a degraded aquatic ecosystem justified?

Cyanobacteria are present in many aquatic ecosystems in Serbia. Lake Ludoš, a wetland area of international significance and an important habitat for waterbirds, has become the subject of intense research interest because of practically continuous blooming of cyanobacteria. Analyses of water samples indicated a deterioration of ecological condition and water quality, and the presence of toxin-producing cyanobacteria (the most abundant Limnothrix redekei, Pseudanabaena limnetica, Planktothrix agardhii and Microcystis spp.). Furthermore, microcystins were detected in plants and animals from the lake: in macrophyte rhizomes (Phragmites communis, Typha latifolia and Nymphaea elegans), and in the muscle, intestines, kidneys, gonads and gills of fish (Carassius gibelio). Moreover, histopathological deleterious effects (liver, kidney, gills and intestines) and DNA damage (liver and gills) were observed in fish. A potential treatment for the reduction of cyanobacterial populations employing hydrogen peroxide was tested during this study. The treatment was not effective in laboratory tests although further in-lake trials are needed to make final conclusions about the applicability of the method. Based on our observations of the cyanobacterial populations and cyanotoxins in the water, as well as other aquatic organisms and, a survey of historical data on Lake Ludoš, it can be concluded that the lake is continuously in a poor ecological state. Conservation of the lake in order to protect the waterbirds (without urgent control of eutrophication) actually endangers them and the rest of the biota in this wetland habitat, and possibly other ecosystems. Thus, urgent measures for restoration are required, so that the preservation of this Ramsar site would be meaningful.

Age-dependent antioxidant responses to the bioconcentration of microcystin-LR in the mysid crustacean, Neomysis awatschensis

Microcystins (MCs) are naturally occurring algal toxins in the aquatic environment and pose a serious threat to the ecosystem. In general, aquatic populations are structured by organisms of different ages, with varying degrees of biochemical and physiological responses. In this study, juvenile and adult marine mysids (Neomysis awatschensis) were exposed to MC-Leucine Arginine (MC-LR) (0.1, 1, and 10 μg L^-1) for 7 days, and the bioconcentration dynamics and responses of antioxidant defense system were measured during the exposure and additional depuration periods (7 days). MC-LR bioconcentrated in a dose-dependent manner, from a threshold concentration of 1 μg L^-1 in both stages, and the levels reduced gradually during the depuration phase. Bioconcentration patterns of MC-LR were highly age-specific, as juvenile mysids showed peaks during the exposure period, whereas adults exhibited a peak on the first day of depuration. After exposure to 10 μg L^-1 concentration, elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) were observed during the late (days 5 and 7) exposure and early (days 1 and 3) depuration periods in juvenile mysids, while adult mysids showed a peak on day 7 of the exposure period. Age-specific responses were also observed in the enzymatic activities of glutathione S-transferase (GST), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GR). Juvenile mysids showed a significant elevation in all enzymatic activities during the exposure and/or depuration phase upon exposure to 10 μg L^-1 MC-LR, but only CAT and SOD enzymes showed significant changes during the exposure and/or depuration periods in adults. Overall, our results indicate the bioconcentration potential of MC-LR and its threshold in the marine mysid, in addition to age-specific MC-LR dynamics and subsequent biochemical responses.

Toxicological and biochemical responses of the earthworm Eisenia fetida to cyanobacteria toxins

Irrigation with eutrophic water containing cyanobacteria toxins poses a potential risk to soil animals. To evaluate ecotoxicological effect of microcystins (MCs) on earthworms, filter paper acute toxicity test, avoidance test and a 14-d artificial soil test were carried out. No acute toxicity was found in the filter paper test, and earthworms showed no avoidance response to MCs exposure. In the artificial soil test, Eisenia fetida were allowed to grow in presence or absence of MCs (0, 1, 10, 100, 1000 μg kg⁻¹ of soil) for 1, 7, and 14 d. Results showed that MCs could bioaccumulated in earthworm. A stimulatory effect on catalase and glutathione oxidase activities induced by MCs was found on day 1, and both of them were significantly inhibited at 100 and 1000 μg kg⁻¹ on days 14. The superoxide dismutase activity was relatively insensitive. Significant increase of malondialdehyde content and decrease of neutral red retention time were observed at 100 and 1000 μg kg⁻¹ on days 7 and 14. Our results suggest that MCs induces oxidative stress on earthworms, which leads to disruption of the antioxidant system and lipid peroxidation, as well as alterations in lysosomal membrane stability.

Microcystin-LR exposure induces oxidative damage in Caenorhabditis elegans: Protective effect of lutein extracted from marigold flowers

Microcystin-LR (MIC-LR) is a hepatotoxin, with toxicity mechanisms linked to oxidative stress. Besides, neurotoxic effects of MIC-LR have recently been described. Herein, we evaluated the effects of environmentally important concentrations of MIC-LR (1, 10, 100, 250, and 500 μg/L) on oxidative stress markers and the survival rate of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). In addition, a possible protective effect of the carotenoid lutein (LUT) extracted from marigold flowers against MIC-LR toxicity was investigated. Higher concentrations (250 and 500 μg/L) of MIC-LR induced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and resulted in a survival loss in C elegans. Meanwhile, all MIC-LR concentrations caused an increase in the superoxide dismutase (SOD) expression, while catalase (CAT) expression was only affected at 500 μg/L. The carotenoid LUT prevented the ROS generation, impairment in the CAT expression, and the survival loss induced by MIC-LR in C. elegans. Our results confirm the toxicity of MIC-LR even in a liver-lacking invertebrate and the involvement of oxidative events in this response. Additionally, LUT appears to be able to mitigate the MIC-LR toxic effects.

Effect of pure microcystin-LR on activity and transcript level of immune-related enzymes in the white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)

Microcystins (MCs) in freshwater and marine waters released by toxin-producing cyanobacteria have negative impacts to the aquatic environment. This study aimed to investigate the effect of pure microcystin-LR on activity and transcript level of immune-related enzymes in the white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei. After exposed to varying concentrations of pure microcystin-LR (MC-LR) for 30 days, the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), lysozyme (LZM), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), peroxidase (POD), acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (AKP) and transcript level of cMn-sod, lzm, gpx were investigated in the hepatopancreas of white shrimp (L. vannamei). Immune-related enzyme activities responded differently to MC-LR exposure. SOD, GPx, and POD activity in the hepatopancreas were activated in a concentration-dependent manner while LZM activity was significantly inhibited in the treatment groups. ACP and AKP activity showed an increase, followed by a decrease. The transcript levels of cMn-sod, lzm, and gpx were consistent with changes in their encoding enzyme activity. These results demonstrated that sub-chronical exposure to MC-LR induced the alteration of immune-related enzymes and corresponding genes in the hepatopancreas, which may help explain the presence of detoxification mechanisms in crustaceans and how they were protected from MC-LR stress for a long period of time.

Microcystin-LR bioconcentration induces antioxidant responses in the digestive gland of two marine bivalves Crassostrea gigas and Mytilus edulis

Microcystins (MCs) are a major group of potent cyanobacterial toxins found in freshwater and even brackish waterbodies. To understand the putative correlation between bioconcentration of MCs and antioxidant responses of the digestive gland of bivalves, Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas and blue mussel Mytilus edulis were exposed to different concentrations (0.1, 1, 10 and 20μgL^-1) of MC-Leucine-Arginine (LR) for seven days. MC-LR bioconcentrated in the digestive glands of both bivalves during exposure period. The levels were slightly reduced when the bivalves were exposed to seawater during depuration (7days), while approximately 0.1μgL^-1 of MC-LR was observed in the 10 and 20μgL^-1 exposed bivalves at the end of depuration. Intracellular malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels were significantly elevated in the 10 and 20μgL^-1 exposed bivalves at 7day, and the levels were maintained during depuration in both bivalves. Overall, significant higher levels of enzymatic activities of antioxidant defense systems such as glutathione S-transferase (GST), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GR) were observed in the 10 and 20μgL^-1 exposed bivalves. Interestingly, most of higher levels of Pacific oyster were detected at exposure period, while blue mussel showed higher levels at depuration phase, suggesting a species-specific sensitivity upon MC-LR. These patterns were correlated with the bioconcentration patterns of MC-LR as Pacific oyster was highly accumulated by MC-LR during exposure period, but blue mussel showed prolonged high levels of MC-LR for depuration phase. Our results will be useful to understand species-specific bioconcentration of MC-LR in bivalves and their effects on intracellular oxidative status via accumulation.

Harmful algae: Effects of cyanobacterial cyclic peptides on aquatic invertebrates-a short review

Cyanotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by cyanobacteria. Cyclic peptides, microcystins and nodularin commonly detected in water reservoirs of different parts of the world may induce various detrimental effects in a wide range of organisms from bacteria to humans. This paper presents the current state of knowledge on the effects of microcystins and nodularin on aquatic invertebrates: zooplankton, decapods and mollusks. Accumulation of microcystins and nodularin in these organisms and possible transfer of the cyanotoxins through the food web and possible threat to humans as consumers are also discussed.

Effects of iron on growth, antioxidant enzyme activity, bound extracellular polymeric substances and microcystin production of Microcystis aeruginosa FACHB-905

Toxic cyanobacterial blooms have occurred in various water bodies during recent decades and made serious health hazards to plants, animals and humans. Iron is an important micronutrient for algal growth and recently, the concentration of which has increased remarkably in freshwaters. In this paper, the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa FACHB-905 was cultivated under non-iron (0μM), iron-limited (10μM) and iron-replete (100μM) conditions to investigate the effects of iron on growth, antioxidant enzyme activity, EPS and microcystin production. The results showed that algal cell density and chlorophyll-a content were maximal at the highest iron concentration. Antioxidant enzymes activity increased notably under all three conditions in the early stage of experiment, of which the SOD activity recovered soon from oxidative stress in 10μM group. The productions of some protein-like substances and humic acid-like substances of bound EPS were inhibited in iron-containing groups in the early stage of experiment while promoted after the adaptation period of Microcystis aeruginosa. Iron addition is a factor affecting the formation of cyanobacterial blooms through its impact on the content of LB-EPS and the composition of TB-EPS. The intracellular MC-LR concentration and the productivity potential of MC-LR were the lowest in 0μM group and highest in 10μM group. No obvious extracellular release of MC-LR was observed during the cultivation time. Therefore, iron addition can promote the physiological activities of M. aeruginosa, but a greater harm could be brought into environment under iron-limited (10μM) condition than under iron-replete (100μM) condition.

Accumulation and detoxication responses of the gastropod Lymnaea stagnalis to single and combined exposures to natural (cyanobacteria) and anthropogenic (the herbicide RoundUp(®) Flash) stressors

Freshwater gastropods are increasingly exposed to multiple stressors in the field such as the herbicide glyphosate in Roundup formulations and cyanobacterial blooms either producing or not producing microcystins (MCs), potentially leading to interacting effects. Here, the responses of Lymnaea stagnalis to a 21-day exposure to non-MC or MC-producing (33μgL(-1)) Planktothrix agardhii alone or in combination with the commercial formulation RoundUp(®) Flash at a concentration of 1μgL(-1) glyphosate, followed by 14days of depuration, were studied via i) accumulation of free and bound MCs in tissues, and ii) activities of anti-oxidant (catalase CAT) and biotransformation (glutathione-S-transferase GST) enzymes. During the intoxication, the cyanobacterial exposure induced an early increase of CAT activity, independently of the MC content, probably related to the production of secondary cyanobacterial metabolites. The GST activity was induced by RoundUp(®) Flash alone or in combination with non MC-producing cyanobacteria, but was inhibited by MC-producing cyanobacteria with or without RoundUp(®) Flash. Moreover, MC accumulation in L. stagnalis was 3.2 times increased when snails were concomitantly exposed to MC-producing cyanobacteria with RoundUp(®), suggesting interacting effects of MCs on biotransformation processes. The potent inhibition of detoxication systems by MCs and RoundUp(®) Flash was reversible during the depuration, during which CAT and GST activities were significantly higher in snails previously exposed to MC-producing cyanobacteria with or without RoundUp(®) Flash than in other conditions, probably related to the oxidative stress caused by accumulated MCs remaining in tissues.

Accumulation and detoxification dynamics of microcystin-LR and antioxidant responses in male red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii

MC-LR is one of major microcystin isoforms with potent hepatotoxicity. In the present study, we aim to: 1) explore the dynamics of MC-LR accumulation and elimination in different tissues of male red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii; 2) reveal the mechanisms underlying hepatic antioxidation and detoxification. In the semi-static toxicity tests under the water temperature of 25±2°C, P. clarkii were exposed to 0.1, 1, 10 and 100μg/L MC-LR for 7days for accumulation and subsequently relocated to freshwater for another 7days to depurate MC-LR. MC-LR was measured in the hepatopancreas, intestine, abdominal muscle and gill by HPLC. The enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione S-transferase (GST), content of glutathione (GSH), and transcripts of Mn-sod, cat, gpx1, Mu-gst, heat shock protein90 (hsp90), hsp70 and hsp60 in hepatopancreas were detected. The results showed that P. clarkii accumulated more MC-LR in intestine, and less in abdominal muscle and gill during accumulation period and eliminated the toxin more quickly in gill and abdominal muscle, and comparatively slowly in intestine during depuration period. The fast increase of SOD and CAT activities at early stage, subsequent decrease at later stage of accumulation period and then fast increase during depuration period were partially consistent with the transcriptional changes of their respective genes. GPx was activated by longer MC-LR exposure and gpx1 mRNA expression showed uncoordinated regulation pattern compared with its enzyme. Hsp genes were up-regulated when P. clarkii was exposed to MC-LR.

Microcystin accumulation and biochemical responses in the edible clam Corbiculaleana P. exposed to cyanobacterial crude extract

We investigated the accumulation and effects of cyanobacterial crude extract (CCE) containing microcystins (MCs) on the edible clam Corbiculaleana P. Toxic effects were evaluated through the activity of antioxidant and detoxification enzymes: catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs) from gills, foot, mantle and remaining soft tissues. Clams were exposed to CCE containing 400μg MC-LReq/L for 10days and were then kept in toxin-free water for 5days. Clam accumulated MCs (up to 3.41±0.63μg/g dry weight (DW) of unbound MC and 0.31±0.013μg/g DW of covalently bound MC). Detoxification and antioxidant enzymes in different organs responded differently to CCE during the experiment. The activity of SOD, CAT, and GST in the gills and mantle increased in MC-treated clams. In contrast, CAT and GST activity was significantly inhibited in the foot and mostly only slightly changed in the remaining tissues. The responses of biotransformation, antioxidant enzyme activity to CCE and the fast elimination of MCs during depuration help to explain how the clam can survive for long periods (over a week) during the decay of toxic cyanobacterial blooms in nature.

Antioxidant responses of triangle sail mussel Hyriopsis cumingii exposed to harmful algae Microcystis aeruginosa and hypoxia

Bloom forming algae and hypoxia are considered to be two main co-occurred stressors associated with eutrophication. The aim of this study was to evaluate the interactive effects of harmful algae Microcystis aeruginosa and hypoxia on an ecologically important mussel species inhabiting lakes and reservoirs, the triangle sail mussel Hyriopsis cumingii, which is generally considered as a bio-management tool for eutrophication. A set of antioxidant enzymes involved in immune defence mechanisms and detoxification processes, i.e. glutathione-S-transferases (GST), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), lysozyme (LZM) in mussel haemolymph were analyzed during 14days exposure along with 7days depuration duration period. GST, GSH, SOD, GPX and LZM were elevated by toxic M. aeruginosa exposure, while CAT activities were inhibited by such exposure. Hypoxia influenced the immune mechanisms through the activation of GSH and GPX, and the inhibition of SOD, CAT, and LZM activities. Meanwhile, some interactive effects of M. aeruginosa, hypoxia and time were observed. Independently of the presence or absence of hypoxia, toxic algal exposure generally increased the five tested enzyme activities of haemolymph, except CAT. Although half of microcystin could be eliminated after 7days depuration, toxic M. aeruginosa or hypoxia exposure history showed some latent effects on most parameters. These results revealed that toxic algae play an important role on haemolymph parameters alterations and its toxic effects could be affected by hypoxia. Although the microcystin depuration rate of H. cumingii is quick, toxic M. aeruginosa and/or hypoxia exposure history influenced its immunological mechanism recovery.

Oxidative effects and toxin bioaccumulation after dietary microcystin intoxication in the hepatopancreas of the crab Neohelice (Chasmagnathus) granulata

We studied the accumulation and depuration of microcystin-LR (MCLR) in the hepatopancreas of the crab Neohelice granulata fed twice weekly with either non toxic or MCLR-producing Microcystis aeruginosa (strain NPDC1 or NPJB, respectively) during seven weeks. We also analyzed MCLR effects on the oxidative stress- and detoxification-related variables, superoxide dismutase and glutathione-S-transferase activities, and the levels of reduced glutathione and lipid peroxidation (as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, TBARS). Hepatopancreas MCLR content slightly increased during the first three weeks, up to 8.81±1.84ngg(-1) wet tissue mass (WTM) and then started to decrease to a minimum of 1.57±0.74ngg(-1) WTM at the seventh week (p<0.05 with respect to that in the first week). TBARS levels were about 55% higher in treated than in control N. granulata (p<0.001 and p<0.05) during the first three weeks of the experimental period. GSH content became 50% lower than in control individuals (p<0.01) during weeks 6 and 7. SOD activity was increased by about 2-fold (p<0.05 or p<0.001) from week 3 to 7 in treated crabs with respect to control ones, while GST activity was about 70% higher in treated than in control crabs from week 4 to week 7 (p<0.05). Our data suggest that in the hepatopancreas of N. granulata MCLR accumulation and oxidative damage are limited and reversed by detoxification-excretion and antioxidant mechanisms. The activation of these defensive mechanisms becomes evident at 3-4 weeks after the start of the intoxication.

Microcystin uptake and biochemical responses in the freshwater clam Corbicula leana P. exposed to toxic and non-toxic Microcystis aeruginosa: Evidence of tolerance to cyanotoxins

We investigated the accumulation and adverse effects of toxic and non-toxic Microcystis in the edible clam Corbicula leana. Treated clams were exposed to toxic Microcystis at 100 μg of MC (microcystin)-LR_eq L^-1 for 10 days. The experimental organism was then placed in toxin-free water and fed on non-toxic Microcystis for the following 10 days for depuration. Filtering rates (FRs) by C. leana of toxic and non-toxic Microcystis and of the green alga Chlorella vulgaris as a control were estimated. Adverse effects were evaluated though the activity of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione S-transferase (GST). Clam accumulated MCs (up to 12.7 ± 2.5 μg g^-1 dry weight (DW) of free MC and 4.2 ± 0.6 μg g^-1 DW of covalently bound MC). Our results suggest that although both toxic and non-toxic cyanobacteria caused adverse effects by inducing the detoxification and antioxidant defense system, the clam was quite resistant to cyanotoxins. The estimated MC concentration in C. leana was far beyond the World Health Organization's (WHO) provisional tolerable daily intake (0.04 μg kg^-1 day^-1), suggesting that consuming clams harvested during cyanobacterial blooms carries a high health risk.

Comparative studies on growth and physiological responses of unicellular and colonial Microcystis aeruginosa to Acorus calamus

In order to explore the growth inhibition and physiological responses of unicellular and colonial Microcystis aeruginosa during coexistence with Acorus calamus, algal densities, chlorophyll a contents, exopolysaccharide (EPS) concentrations, malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, catalase (CAT) activities, and peroxidase (POD) activities of the two algae strains were analyzed. Although the unicellular and colonial strains of M. aeruginosa were both inhibited by A. calamus, unicellular algae were more sensitive than the colonial algae. The measurement results for EPS, MDA, CAT, and POD showed that unicellular M. aeruginosa had higher levels of stress related damage than colonial strains when they were exposed to the same density of A. calamus, and the cellular defense system of colonial M. aeruginosa was stronger than that of unicellular M. aeruginosa. Natural blooms of Microcystis are typically composed of colonial forms of M. aeruginosa, therefore future efforts to control such blooms, possibly through the development of new algicides, should focus on the unique characteristics of colonial M. aeruginosa strains.

Combined effects of the cyanobacterial toxin microcystin-LR and environmental factors on life-history traits of indigenous cladoceran Moina macrocopa

Environmental factors are important in that they might interact with toxicants and could affect the concentration-response relationship of the toxicants in the water environment. Microcystins (MCs) produced by algal blooming are natural toxins that exert severe impacts on aquatic organisms. Despite the possibility of interaction effects between environmental factors and MCs, very few studies have been carried out to date. In the present study, the authors evaluated the effect of 3 environmental factors on chronic toxicity of MC-leucine-arginine (MC-LR; 0 µg/L, 0.8 µg/L, 4 µg/L, 20 µg/L, 100 µg/L, 500 µg/L) to the freshwater invertebrate Moina macrocopa. Three environmental factors were determined to reflect the reasonable worst conditions of the water body in South Korea: high water temperature (25 °C), the highest concentration of nutrients (ammonia-nitrogen [NH3 -N] = 3.8 mg/L; nitrate-nitrogen [NO3 -N] = 8.5 mg/L) during the occurrence of algal bloom, and 2 pH conditions of 7.0 and 9.0, which satisfy the test acceptance criteria for the Daphnia test. Among the various environmental factors being tested, high water temperature and NO3 -N elevated chronic toxicity of MC-LR, whereas NH3 -N reduced toxicity. Water pH did not influence chronic toxicity of MC-LR to M. macrocopa. This observation suggests that those environmental factors are responsible for changing the trend of MC-LR toxicity.

Emerging contaminants of public health significance as water quality indicator compounds in the urban water cycle

The contamination of the urban water cycle (UWC) with a wide array of emerging organic compounds (EOCs) increases with urbanization and population density. To produce drinking water from the UWC requires close examination of their sources, occurrence, pathways, and health effects and the efficacy of wastewater treatment and natural attenuation processes that may occur in surface water bodies and groundwater. This paper researches in details the structure of the UWC and investigates the routes by which the water cycle is increasingly contaminated with compounds generated from various anthropogenic activities. Along with a thorough survey of chemicals representing compound classes such as hormones, antibiotics, surfactants, endocrine disruptors, human and veterinary pharmaceuticals, X-ray contrast media, pesticides and metabolites, disinfection-by-products, algal toxins and taste-and-odor compounds, this paper provides a comprehensive and holistic review of the occurrence, fate, transport and potential health impact of the emerging organic contaminants of the UWC. This study also illustrates the widespread distribution of the emerging organic contaminants in the different aortas of the ecosystem and focuses on future research needs.

Biomarker responses to sewage pollution in freshwater mussels (Diplodon chilensis) transplanted to a Patagonian river

Field and laboratory experiments were combined to evaluate biomarker responses of Diplodon chilensis to sewage pollution. Mussels from an unpolluted area in Lacar lake (S0) were caged at a reference site (S1) and at two sites with increasing sewage pollution (S2, S3) in Pocahullo river (all in Argentina). After 1 month, gill (g) glutathione S-transferase (GST) and catalase (CAT) activities, and lipid peroxidation (TBARS) were found to be significantly elevated in S3, gGST being positively correlated with fecal bacteria (FC) concentration. Digestive gland (dg) enzyme activities were depressed and dgTBARS were increased in all transplanted mussels. After 3 mo, most variables returned to control levels in S1 mussels except for dgCAT and dgTBARS. After seven months, GST and CAT activities of S0 and S3 mussels were evaluated in the laboratory, before and after acute exposure (8 h) to high fecal bacteria concentration ([FC] in S3x 2). gGST increased in both groups, while dgGST responded only in S3 mussels. gCAT and dgCAT activities were similarly increased by acute exposure in both groups. Our results suggest that gGST and gCAT are suitable biomarkers for high FC pollution regardless of previous exposure history. In addition, we show that dgCAT is sensitive to the acute increase in FC load, both in naive and long-term exposed individuals, while dgGST becomes responsive after long-term acclimatization.

Epidemiology of cancers in Serbia and possible connection with cyanobacterial blooms

Cyanobacteria produce toxic metabolites known as cyanotoxins. These bioactive compounds can cause acute poisoning, and some of them may promote cancer through chronic exposure. Direct ingestion of and contact with contaminated water is one of the many exposure routes to cyanotoxins. The aim of this article was to review the incidence of 13 cancers during a 10-year period in Serbia and to assess whether there is a correlation between the cancer incidences and cyanobacterial bloom occurrence in reservoirs for drinking water supply. The types of cancers were chosen and subjected to epidemiological analyses utilizing previously published data. Based on the epidemiological and statistical analysis, the group of districts in which the incidences of cancers are significant, and may be considered as critical, include Nišavski, Toplički, and Šumadijski district. A significantly higher incidence of ten cancers was observed in the three critical districts as compared to the remaining 14 districts in Central Serbia. These elevated incidences of cancer include: brain cancer, heart, mediastinum and pleura cancer, ovary cancer, testicular cancer, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, retroperitoneum and peritoneum cancer, leukemia, malignant melanoma of skin, and primary liver cancer. In addition, the mean incidence of five chosen cancers was the highest in the three critical regions, then in the rest of Central Serbia, while the lowest values were recorded in Vojvodina. Persistent and recurrent cyanobacterial blooms occur during summer months in reservoirs supplying water to waterworks in the three critical districts. People in Central Serbia mainly use surface water as water supply (but not all the water bodies are blooming) while in Vojvodina region (control region in this study) only groundwater is used. Among the 14 "noncritical" districts, reservoirs used for drinking water supply have been affected by recurrent cyanobacterial blooms in two districts (Rasinski and Zaječarski), but the waterworks in these districts have been performing ozonation for more than 30 years. We propose that the established statistical differences of cancer incidences in Serbia could be related to drinking water quality, which is affected by cyanobacterial blooms in drinking water reservoirs in certain districts. However, more detailed research is needed regarding cyanobacterial secondary metabolites as risk factors in tumor promotion and cancerogenesis in general.

Specific proteomic response of Unio pictorum mussel to a mixture of glyphosate and microcystin-LR

Cyanobacterial toxins and pesticides regularly impact freshwaters. Microcystin-LR is one of the most toxic and common cyanobacterial toxins whereas glyphosate is the active ingredient of a widely use herbicide. As filter feeders, freshwater mussels are particularly exposed. Like many native bivalve species, Unio pictorum suffers from a continuous decline in Europe. In order to get a deeper insight of its response to contaminants, U. pictorum was exposed to either 10 μg L(-1) of microcystin-LR or 10 μg L(-1) of glyphosate or a mixture of both. Proteins of the digestive glands were extracted and analyzed by DIGE. Gel analysis revealed 103 spots with statistical variations, and the response seems to be less toward glyphosate than to microcystin-LR. Specific spots have variations only when exposed to the mixture, showing that there is an interaction of both contaminants in the responses triggered. The proteins of 30 spots have been identified. They belong mostly to the cytoskeleton family, but proteins of the oxidative pathway, detoxification, and energetic metabolism were affected either by glyphosate or microcystin-LR or by the mixture. These results demonstrate the importance to study contaminants at low concentrations representative of those found in the field and that multicontaminations can lead to different response pathways.

Epidemiology of primary liver cancer in Serbia and possible connection with cyanobacterial blooms

Today, the occurrence of harmful cyanobacterial blooms is a common phenomenon and a potential global health problem. Cyanobacteria can produce metabolites highly toxic to humans. More than 80% of reservoirs used for water supply in Central Serbia have bloomed over the past 80 years. A 10-year epidemiological study showed a significant increase in the incidence of primary liver cancer (PLC) in the regions where water from the blooming reservoirs was used for human consumption. At the same time, no correlation was found between the incidence of PLC and other risk factors, such as cirrhosis and hepatitis viruses. Given the strong association with PLC induction and various known possible mechanisms of carcinogenic action, it is highly possible that, cyanotoxins--acting as initiator and promoter--may be the major risk factor that acts synergistically with other risk factors to cause increased incidence of PLC. However, at present, it is still not certain whether cyanotoxins alone were sufficient to induce PLC. Therefore, additional assessment of the health risks that may arise from human exposure to cyanotoxins is advisable.

Presence and bioaccumulation of microcystins and cylindrospermopsin in food and the effectiveness of some cooking techniques at decreasing their concentrations: a review

Microcystins (MCs) and cylindrospermopsin (CYN) are among the cyanotoxins which occur naturally, produced by different cyanobacteria species when they grow or proliferate under favorable environmental conditions. From a toxicological point of view, their relevance is due to the deleterious effects that they have been reported to induce in a wide range of organisms, including humans. Cyanotoxins intake from contaminated water and food is an important source of human exposure. Various edible aquatic organisms, plants, and food supplements based on algae, can bioaccumulate these toxins. A thorough review of the scientific data available on this topic is provided, the studies on MCs being much more numerous than those focused on CYN. The scientific literature suggests that these cyanotoxins can be accumulated at concentrations higher than their respective recommended tolerable daily intake (TDI). Finally, the influence of different cooking procedures on their levels in food has been considered. In this regard, again studies on the matter dealing with CYN have been not yet raised. MCs contents have been reported to be reduced in muscle of fish after boiling, or cooking in a microwave-oven, although the effect of other traditional cooking processes such as frying, roasting or grilling have not been demonstrated.

Adaptation of freshwater mussels to cyanobacterial toxins: response of the biotransformation and antioxidant enzymes

Freshwater mussels such as the invasive Dreissena polymorpha and the indigenous Unio tumidus nourish by high filtration rates and may accumulate cyanobacteria and their toxins during cyanobacterial blooms. Physiological adaptations to cyanotoxins enable organisms to endure cyanobacterial blooms but may differ between species. Biotransformation and excretion capacities for cyanobacteria and anthropogenic pollutants have been demonstrated for Dreissena polymorpha but less for unionid species. This study compares the activities of biotransformation (glutathione S-transferase, GST) and antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, SOD and catalase, CAT) in Dreissena polymorpha to Unio tumidus in response to cyanotoxin exposure (10 μg L(-1) and 50 μg L(-1) microcystin-LR, respectively, total microcystin from a cyanobacterial crude extract) for 24 h and 7d exposure duration. Enzyme activities in Dreissena polymorpha were measured in the whole mussel tissue, digestive gland and in gills and in Unio tumidus in the digestive gland, gills, mantle, foot as well as in the remaining tissue. The sGST was elevated for the entire exposure period in the whole mussel tissue of Dreissena polymorpha but despite higher basal activities in digestive gland and gills of Unio tumidus, it was rather inhibited or unaltered in most of their tissues. Elevated SOD activity indicated oxidative stress response in Dreissena polymorpha, but not in Unio tumidus. The CAT activity was barely affected in both species, rather inhibited in Unio tumidus, despite again higher basal activities in digestive gland and remaining tissue. Compared to the indigenous Unio tumidus, the investigated biotransformation and oxidative stress combating enzymes respond stronger in the invasive Dreissena polymorpha.

Expression and activity of glutathione S-transferases and catalase in the shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei inoculated with a toxic Microcystis aeruginosa strain

Microcystin (MC) produced during cyanobacteria blooms is notably toxic to human and wildlife. Conjugation with reduced glutathione (GSH) by glutathione S-transferase (GST) and the antioxidant enzymes defenses (e.g. catalase, CAT) are important biochemical defense mechanisms against MCs toxicity. We investigated the enzymatic activity of CAT and GST and the gene expression levels of CAT and eight GST isoforms in the hepatopancreas of the globally farmed shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei 48-h after injection with a sub-lethal dose of 100 μg kg⁻¹ of a toxic Microcystis aeruginosa extract. MCs caused up-regulation for GSTΩ, μ and a MAPEG isoform, by 12-, 2.8- and 1.8-fold, respectively, and increases in the total GST enzyme activity and CAT enzyme activity. The study points to the importance of further characterization for the L. vannamei GST isoforms and GST/CAT post-translational regulation processes to better understand the key mechanisms involved in the shrimp's defense against MC exposure.

Effects of microcystin-LR exposure on matrix metalloproteinase-2/-9 expression and cancer cell migration

This study assessed the effects of microcystin-LR (MC-LR) exposure on matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) expression and cancer cell migration. After male mice were orally administered with different concentrations of MC-LR for 270 d, histopathologic observation revealed an obvious hepatic lymphocyte infiltration or fatty degeneration. Immunohistochemical staining and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay demonstrated that MC-LR treatment (even at 1 nM) caused up-regulated expressions of hepatic MMP-2/-9. Quantitative reverse-transcriptase PCR showed that the exposure to 80 nM MC-LR induced an increase of MMP-2/-9 mRNA levels by 1.0 and 1.9 fold. Breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-435s) were also cultured with MC-LR solutions and a wound healing assay demonstrated that MC-LR posed a time/dose-dependent stimulation effect on migration of the cancer cells. Gelatin electrophoresis and quantitative PCR showed significant increases in cellular MMP-2/-9 expressions after MC-LR exposure. This study indicated that chronic exposure to MC-LR could alter MMP-2/-9 expressions and stimulate cancer cell migration.