Lead accumulation pattern and molecular biomarkers of oxidative stress in seabream (Sparus aurata) under short-term metal treatment

Abstract

The present work aimed to look at the distribution and accumulation pattern of Lead (Pb) within the fish body after 2 h, 4 h and 24 h of waterborne exposure to the metal at 0.75 mg/L. Tests of lead acute toxicity and bioaccumulation were performed in the common fish species Sparus aurata. In our study, we assessed the oxidative stress damages extent after 2 h, 4 h and 24 h of exposure to lead using the enzymatic stress biomarkers: Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT) and Gluthathione (GSH). The lipid peroxidation (LPO) was also investigated by dosing Malondyhaldéhyde (MDA) quantities in the liver tissue. The acute neurotoxicity of Pb was evaluated in the dorsal white muscle using the Acethylcholenesterase (AchE) activity. The liver tissue accumulates preferentially the metal, followed by the intestines, the gills and finally the dorsal muscle. The antioxidant response failed to prevent the lipid peroxidation and the neurotoxic effect of lead after 24 h of exposure.

• Lead accumulation
• oxidative stress biomarkers
• Sparus aurata

Declaration of interest

The authors declare that there is no a conflict of interest.