Investigation of Cadmium-Induced Genotoxicity and Oxidative Stress Response in Indian Major Carp, Labeo rohita

ABSTRACT

We investigated genotoxicity and oxidative stress in the gills of Labeo rohita exposed to 33.6, 67.1, and 100.6 mg L^–1of cadmium chloride at 96 h. Genotoxicity was assessed using single cell gel electrophoresis whereas oxidative stress was monitored through lipid peroxidation induction and antioxidant response parameters, namely reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase, glutathione-S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase (CAT) activities. Significant (p < .05) effect of both concentration and time of exposure was observed on the extent of DNA damage in treated fish. Similarly, malondialdehyde content, level of GSH, and activities of antioxidant enzymes were significantly elevated in treated groups, except CAT. The increased DNA damage and lipid peroxidation (LPO) content along with fluctuation in antioxidant defense system in fish indicated the interaction of cadmium (Cd) with DNA repair processes and production of reactive oxygen species. Thus, Cd is liable for induction of LPO, alteration of antioxidant defenses, and DNA damage in gills of L. rohita.

Key Words:

• cadmium
• genotoxicity
• Labeo rohita
• oxidative stress
• antioxidant enzymes

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The authors are thankful to the Director, National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Lucknow, India, for providing support, suggestions, materials, and a laboratory facility for conducting this study. All experiments were carried out in accordance with the guidelines for the care of experimental animals as approved by the National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Canal Ring Road, PO-Dilkusha, Lucknow, India.