Effects of heat stress on physiological parameters, biochemical parameters and expression of heat stress protein gene in Lateolabraxmaculatus

Abstract

With global warming and the increasing frequency of extreme heat, we have to consider the heat tolerance of fish to sudden high temperatures. This study investigated the effects of high temperature (32 °C) on physiology and biochemistry and heat shock proteins (HSPs) gene of spotted sea bass (Lateolabrax maculatus). The spotted sea bass (14.7 ± 1.54 g) temporarily cultured at 26 °C was directly transferred to the 32 °C high temperature group, and the gill morphology, liver antioxidant activity, respiratory metabolism related enzyme activity and the expression of five HSP70 family members genes were measured at 3, 6, 9, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h. The results showed that 32 °C had damage effect on gill tissue and antioxidant system, and the damage degree increased with high temperature. Respiratory rate and malondialdehyde increased gradually with the continuous heat stress. Superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity increased briefly and then decreased continuously. Succinate dehydrogenase decreased to the lowest value at 24 h and then continued to increase. Lactate dehydrogenase decreased continuously; the expression of HSP70 increased rapidly and then decreased. These results indicated that the antioxidant system and HSP70 were activated under heat stress condition and provided protection to the body, but with the continuous high temperature, the protective effect was limited, and the fish body was irreversibly damaged. It is necessary to pay close attention to the temperature change in the production practice of spotted sea bass to reduce the influence caused by high temperature.