Histopathological alterations in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) under acute fluoxetine exposure

The presence of antidepressant residues, such as fluoxetine (FLX), in surface and underground waters worldwide has raised concerns regarding their potential impacts on non-target organisms, including fish. This study aimed to investigate the effects of short-term exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of FLX on zebrafish (Danio rerio). A total of ۱۲۰ zebrafish, with an average weight of ۰.۴۳±۰.۰۵ g and length of ۳.۴۳±۰.۰۵ cm, were divided into one control group and four treatment groups exposed to different FLX concentrations (۰.۱ μg/L, ۰.۵ μg/L, ۱۰ μg/L, and ۱۰۰ μg/L) for ۹۶ hours. Histopathological examination was conducted on the gill and kidney tissues to assess the effects of acute FLX exposure. The results revealed structural changes in the gills, including hyperplasia, aneurysm, clubbing, shrinkage, atrophy, and fusion of secondary lamellae. Similarly, the kidney tissues exhibited expansion of Bowman's space, increased thickness of Bowman's capsule, dilation of glomerular capillaries, tubular degeneration, and necrosis. The study underscores the toxic effects of FLX on zebrafish at environmentally relevant concentrations in the micrograms per liter range. Therefore, the potential adverse effects of residual FLX exposure should not be overlooked in fish populations.

کلیدواژه ها:

Zebra fish ، Fluoxetine ، Antidepressant ، Tissue damages