Application of heat shock proteins as stress markers in aquatic organisms using endemic Baikal amphipods as an example

Abstract

When heat shock proteins (HSPs) are used as biomarkers in monitoring studies of aquatic ecosystems, it is necessary to take into account the specificity of synthesis of these proteins in various organisms. This especially applies to endemic species and species with narrow ranges of adaptation for specific conditions in certain water bodies. In this study, we assessed the possibility to use HSPs as molecular stress markers in species with a narrow niche breadth using endemic Baikal amphipods (Crustacea, Amphipoda) as an example. The effect of stress induced by toxicants and temperature has been assessed. Proteins of families HSP70 and low-molecular-weight HSP related to alpha-crystallins were used as biomarkers. Temperature- and toxicant-induced stresses induced low-molecular-weight HSP synthesis in the endemic amphipod species studied. However, induction of HSP70 synthesis in the same species after temperature stress has not been detected. The specificity of synthesis of HSP70 is discussed. The results obtained in this study suggest that low-molecular-weight HSPs can be used as stress markers in Baikal species and species with a narrow niche breadth.