Neurohepatic Biochemical Alterations: Protein Profile Shifts in Cirrhinus Mrigala Under Emamectin Benzoate Toxicity.

Abstract

Madhav Pralhad Bhilave

Emamectin Benzoate (EB) is a broad-spectrum insecticide primarily formulated for the management of lepidopteran pests. However, due to agricultural runoff and leaching, considerable amounts of EB may reach aquatic ecosystems, where it can exert toxic effects on non-target organisms, particularly fish. Biochemical alterations in fish serve as sensitive biomarkers and provide the earliest indications of stress under pesticide exposure. The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the toxic impact of EB on protein metabolism in fingerlings of the freshwater major carp Cirrhinus mrigala. Fingerlings were exposed to predetermined sub-lethal (LC0) and median lethal (LC50) concentrations of EB, and acute toxicity responses were assessed. Brain and liver tissues two metabolically active and physiologically vital organs were chosen for analysis to determine tissue-specific biochemical responses. The experimental design comprised three groups: a control group, an LC0 group, and an LC50 group. After 96 hours of exposure, protein content was estimated using the Lowry method. The findings demonstrated a marked decrease in protein content in both brain and liver tissues of the exposed groups compared to controls. The decline was more pronounced at LC50 concentrations, indicating concentration-dependent stress. These results suggest that EB exposure disrupts protein metabolism in Cirrhinus mrigala, possibly due to enhanced proteolysis, impaired protein synthesis, or increased energy demands under toxic stress.

PDF