Evaluating the repetitive mucus extraction effects on mucus biomarkers, mucous cells, and the skin-barrier status in a marine fish model

Among all the mucosal barriers, skin and its surrounding mucus are possibly main defensive tool against changes in environment that can be harmful for fish. Due to extraction of this being less invasive, study production functions has attracted great interest recent years. However, there still many gaps concerning sampling process as well possible alterations integrity composition. In current study, effects were determined by comparing a single (single group, SEG) with those three successive extractions separated 3 days (repetitive REG). Intact histology without (ØEG) both plasma biomarkers antibacterial capacities also assessed. Regarding barrier properties, SEG REG did not show differences intact skin. Interestingly, repetitive seemed activate turnover, significantly increasing number small-sized mucous cells (cell area< 100 µm 2 ) reducing large-sized area > 150 ). Repetitive decreased amounts soluble protein increased cortisol secretion. These metabolites remained unaltered plasma, indicating different responses mucus. Despite biomarkers, capacity pathogenic bacteria ( Pseudomonas anguilliseptica Vibrio anguillarum was maintained irrespective extractions. Overall, protocol had little effect on only modifying exuded stimulating cell replacement. This is feasible minimally invasive way studying monitoring fish health welfare used an alternative or complement analysis. methodology transferred farm culture conditions very useful threatened species order preserve welfare.