Investigation of Oxidative Stress, Lipid Peroxidation and DNA Damage in the Muscle Tissue of Young Trout Treated With Arsenic

Abstract

Arsenic, a metalloid and metal compound commonly found in the earth's crust, dissolves in underground waters and can cause toxic effects by spreading through industrial processes or the environment. In this study, the changes in levels of antioxidant enzymes and several parameters (GSHPx, CAT, MDA, SOD, and 8-OHdG) in the muscle tissue of juvenile trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) after arsenic exposure were investigated, and the data obtained were analysed. In our study, juvenile trout were divided into three groups, and arsenic was administered at saturations of 25, 50, and 75 mg/L. 96 hours after application, the muscle tissue from young trout was removed and homogenised. The 8-OHdG content in the muscle tissue was determined using an ELISA kit. The levels of SOD, CAT, GSH-Px and MDA were determined using spectrophotometric methods. In young trout with arsenic accumulation in muscle tissue, DNA damage was observed, and the 8OHdG content increased accordingly. There was deterioration in the cell membrane structure and lipid peroxidation. When the muscle tissue of young trout treated with arsenic was examined, a significant decrease in the concentrations of CAT, GSH-Px and SOD was observed. It is assumed that this is due to oxidative stress caused by the accumulation of free radicals in the muscle tissue of the fish. These changes occurred after arsenic was applied. The presence of heavy metals in large quantities in the habitats of aquatic organisms negatively affects their life and developmental stages, and their presence in the food chain and use as food by other species can cause significant toxicity. © 2025 The Author(s).