Acute effects of arsenic on the regulation of metabolic activities in liver of fresh water fishes (taki)‎ during cold acclimation

Abstract EN

A variety of Channa punctatus fishes were exposed to low temperature for 30 min, 1h, 2h and 4h respectively, since these species of fishes are highly energetic and survive in the critical situations.

The protein content in liver extract was not altered significantly with the extension of time and remains similar to the control.

Cold exposure does not significantly affect inorganic phosphate (Pi), however, a significant increased level was observed after a 30 min exposure.

The alkaline phosphatase (ALKP) activity was significantly enhanced by time dependency and was optimum at 1h of cold exposure.

To clarify whether arsenic impairs the cold-induced metabolic functions, groups of fishes were exposed to 10 mM and 100 mM sodium arsenate (Na2HAsO4) as well as in cold.

The protein content was significantly enhanced by Na2HAsO4, however, the effects were lower in response to 100 mM concentration.

Similar increase in Pi level in liver in response to arsenic was observed and reduced in cold exposure.

ALKP activity was increased by arsenic treatment; however, the higher dose appeared to reduce the potency by inducing the activity.

To find the role of arsenic on liver only, arsenic treated and control livers were excluded completely and their weights recorded.

A significant increased liver exposed with 10 mM Na2HAsO4 was found; and on the other hand, whenever the fishes were exposed to 100 mM Na2HAsO4, reduced liver weight was noted.

The results demonstrate that cold exposure is critically involved in the regulation of certain metabolic activities in liver and arsenic might be involved in interaction of cold induced effects.