Impact of Wastewater from Outfall of River on Bitter Gourd: Morphological and Biochemical Studies, Peptide Synthesis and Antioxidant Activity

Abstract

River pollution poses a significant concern for the people of India who heavily rely on river water for daily needs. This study focuses on assessing the status of river pollution in West Bengal, India, with a particular emphasis on a major canal (N22° 39'08.75'' E88° 21'27.60'') near Dakhineswar New Jetty, known for its Kali Temple and frequent ritual activities. The region's dependence on river water is evident in daily life. Analysis of three consecutive years (2016-2018) reveals alarming levels of Total Coliform, reaching up to 8.18 x 106 MPN/100ml during the premonsoon season. Disturbingly high concentrations of Lead (0.069 mg/L) and Mercury (0.008 mg/L) are recorded. Average Dissolved Oxygen (DO) and Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) are 2.3 mg/L and 7.9 mg/L, respectively, during the premonsoon. The impact of wastewater on Bitter Gourd (Momordica charantia L.) manifests in detrimental changes to both morphological and biochemical parameters, including total chlorophyll and protein content. Low molecular weight peptide(s) (3.0-0.5 kDa) are extracted, purified, and analyzed through ion exchange resin column, ultra-filtration, and HPLC. HPLC analysis distinguishes the presence of peptides compared to the control, revealing adverse effects of wastewater. The antioxidant activity of low molecular weight peptide(s) is demonstrated through DPPH scavenging. Bioassays, such as the germination percentage of wastewater-treated Bitter Gourd seeds, indicate inhibition. The intensified impact of wastewater during the premonsoon season underscores the urgency of addressing river pollution in this region.