Elucidating the reproductive toxicity mechanisms in female zebrafish: A transcriptomic study of lifetime tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate exposure

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Tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP), emerging as a predominant substitute for brominated flame retardants (BFRs), is now increasingly recognized as a prevalent contaminant in aquatic ecosystems. The extent of its reproductive toxicity in aquatic species, particularly in zebrafish (Danio rerio), remains insufficiently characterized. This study subjected zebrafish embryos to various concentrations of TCEP (0, 0.8, 4, 20, and 100 μg/L) over a period of 120 days, extending through sexual maturation, to assess its impact on female reproductive health. Notable reductions in body weight (0.59- and 0.76-fold) and length (0.71- and 0.77-fold) were observed at concentrations of 20 and 100 μg/L, with a concomitant decrease by 0.21- to 0.61-fold in the gonadal somatic index across all treatment groups. The reproductive output, as evidenced by egg production and hatchability, was adversely affected. Histopathological analysis suggested that TCEP exposure impedes ovarian development. Endocrine alterations were also evident, with testosterone and 11-ketotestosterone levels significantly diminished by 0.38- and 0.08-fold at the highest concentration tested, while 17β-estradiol was elevated by 0.09- to 0.14-fold in all exposed groups. Transcriptomic profiling illuminated numerous differentially expressed genes (DEGs) integral to reproductive processes, including hormone regulation, neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, oocyte meiosis, and progesterone-mediated maturation pathways. Collectively, these findings indicate that lifelong exposure to TCEP disrupts ovarian development and maturation in female zebrafish, alters gene expression within the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, and perturbs sex hormone synthesis, culminating in pronounced reproductive toxicity.