G-protein(s), [formula omitted], in the olfactory neuroepithelium of the channel catfish ( ictalurus punctatus) is altered by the herbicide, dichlobenil

Abstract

The immunohistochemical localization of G αq G α11 was studied in the olfactory neuroepithelium of the channel catfish. Antigenicity in the rosette was found at the apical surfaces of cells, within the apical neck regions of some cells, and within the area of the basal nerve tracts. Specific labeling was eliminated by preincubation of the G αq G α11 antibodies with the cognate peptide. Catfish, exposed to a 20 ppm dose of the herbicide, dichlobenil, displayed a reduction in G αq G α11 antigenicity. Proteins were extracted from olfactory tissues and solubilized. Using SDS-PAGE and Western blotting, bands corresponding in apparent molecular weight to a 38 kD protein were found. These data demonstrate that the herbicide may be a potent nasal olfactory toxicant in aquatic situations.