Methylmercury displays pro-adipogenic properties in rainbow trout preadipocytes

Methylmercury (MeHg) is a ubiquitous contaminant largely found in aquatic environments, especially species at high trophic level such as salmonids. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects MeHg on adipocyte differentiation and lipid metabolism rainbow trout. Primary cultured preadipocytes were exposed increasing concentrations during six days with or without hormonal cocktail. Main results showed dose-dependent intracellular accumulation neutral lipids preferential uptake n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Interestingly, occurred after fairly low by maintained cellular exposure MeHg. In membrane phospholipids, arachidonic acid (20:4 n-6) released manner. At transcriptional level, expression several adipocyte-specific genes (perilipin 2 apolipoprotein Eb) well lipid-related (fatty synthase binding protein 11a) up-regulated These highlight for first time disrupting effect trout metabolism, providing new insights regarding role environmental pollutants adipose tissue dysfunction related pathologies.