Effects of organophosphates on acute poisoning and acetyl cholinesterase inhibition in zebra fish.

Author(s): Sukirtha* T. H., Usharani M. V.

Abstract

Organophosphates (Ops.) are the most widely used insecticides available today. These are a group of insecticides used in chemical sprays to kill bugs, and insects in orchards, vineyards, vegetables and cereal crops. The present study examined effects of the pesticide Methyl parathion, Dichlorvos and Chlorpyrifos on adult zebra fish were exposed to various concentrations (5, 10 & 25mg/L) for 24 and 48hrs acute toxic study. Chlorpyrifos showed mortality in all concentrations and Methyl parathion and Dichlorvos showed the same in 25 mg/L. LC 50 value for Methyl parathion and Dichlorvos was 5 & 10 mg/L respectively. The total protein, LPO content was increased except SOD, Catalase in the brain tissue of the treated fishes. There was no significant decrease in the GPX activity at 5ppm test groups. The GPX activity decreased significantly in test group treated with 10ppm and a significant difference was found between 5ppm and 10ppm test groups. The histopathological studies of brain tissue showed that neuronal degeneration and tissue damages in the brain of treated fishes when compared with the control. Ops. produce toxicity by inhibiting the cholinesterase enzymes in the nervous system. Monitoring of acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) inhibition has been widely used in terrestrial and freshwater aquatic systems as an indicator of OP exposure and effects.

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