Embryotoxicity of Five Cytostatics in Fathead Minnow (Pimephales promelas) Larvae

Cytostatics are compounds used in chemotherapy, known to be genotoxic, mutagenic, and teratogenic at low concentrations. The amount of cytostatic drugs prescribed increases every year as does their release into the aquatic ecosystems, which possibly is a major concern for health organisms. This study aimed evaluate putative toxicity five cytostatics fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) larvae: tamoxifen, capecitabine, methotrexate, cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide. Eggs collected post-fertilization were exposed 6 days range concentrations, including one above environmental level. At all no significant difference mortality, hatching time, length, heart rate, presence malformations found. Altogether, these do not seem embryotoxic fish. Although, an increased proportion complete swim bladder found after ifosfamide’s exposure, suggesting interaction with thyroid axis, involved development. Complementary work should address other endpoints, such behavioral changes, reproductive success, transgenerational effects.