Biological responses and toxicopathic effects elicited in Solea senegalensis juveniles by waterborne exposure to benzo[a]pyrene

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are priority contaminants in coastal and estuarine ecosystems under anthropogenic pressure. Although PAHs tend to accumulate the sediment, toxicity for benthic flat fish such as soles may be caused by released from sediment water column. Within this context, present investigation aims at recognizing toxicopathic effects elicited after waterborne exposure benzo[a]pyrene B[a]P, a model individual PAH compound, juvenile Solea senegalensis. Sole juveniles were exposed various concentrations of B[a]P 3 7 days. Brain, liver, gills gonad target tissues selected determine biochemical lysosomal biomarkers, histopathology. Biological responses consistent with concentration time. From day 3, hepatic catalase inhibition indicated potential oxidative B[a]P. At 7, contaminant produced glutathione-S-transferase induction low higher levels, evidencing bell-shaped response. A clear gradient membrane destabilisation was observed relation concentrations. Histopathological lesions more frequent levels. It seems that environmentally relevant (1000 ng/l) would suffice cause on sole relatively short times. In agreement, Integrative Response index (IBR/n) dose-dependent decline health condition upon (IBR/nHighB[a]P > IBR/nMidB[a]P IBR/nLowB[a]P IBR/nDMSO IBR/nControl). Overall, changes antioxidant enzymes activity, biomarkers gill liver histopathology responsive early-warning signs disturbance PAHs.