Toxicity study of aqueous extracts of white and brown rice and rice bran in zebrafish embryos

Background: This study investigates the impact of arsenic contamination in rice and its byproducts on zebrafish embryo development, given the genetic similarity (۷۰%) between zebrafish and humans and the transparency of zebrafish embryos, which allows for detailed observation of organ growth, blood flow, and heartbeat. Samples of white rice, brown rice, and rice bran from the Hashemi were analyzed for arsenic levels using ICP-MS. The results showed arsenic concentrations of ۰.۰۷ mg/kg in white rice, ۰.۱۱ mg/kg in brown rice, and higher levels in rice bran. Each concentration was tested in triplicate, with ۱۲۰ embryos per replicate. Methods: Observations were recorded over ۹۶ hours post-fertilization. At lower concentrations (۰.۱ and ۱ mg/kg), embryos developed normally, exhibiting typical organogenesis, blood flow, and heartbeat. However, at higher concentrations, significant developmental abnormalities were observed, including malformations and reduced survival rates. Results: These findings underscore the potential health risks posed by arsenic-contaminated rice, particularly in regions where rice is a dietary staple. The study highlights the importance of monitoring arsenic levels in rice and its byproducts to mitigate risks to human health, as zebrafish embryos serve as a reliable model for assessing developmental toxicity due to their genetic and physiological similarities to humans.

کلیدواژه ها:

rice ، bran ، arsenic ، zebrafish ، toxicity