Abstract
The frequencies of micronuclei (MN) and morphological nuclear abnormalities (NA) in erythrocytes in the peripheral blood of tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum), treated with 2 mg.L−1 methylmercury (MeHg), were analyzed. Two groups (nine specimens in each) were exposed to MeHg for different periods (group A - 24 h; group B - 120 h). A third group served as negative control (group C, untreated; n = 9). Although, when compared to the control group there were no significant differences in MN frequency in the treated groups, for NA, the differences between the frequencies of group B (treated for 120 h) and the control group were extremely significant (p < 0.02), thus demonstrating the potentially adverse effects of MeHg on C. macropomum erythrocytes after prolonged exposure.
Highlights
Heavy metals represent a significant ecological and public health threat, through their toxicity and ability to accumulate in living organisms (Çavas, 2008)
Mercury and certain organomercurial compounds exert an adverse effect on tubulin, the structural subunit of microtubules involved in cytoplasm organization, and a component of spindle fibers
Methylmercury (MeHg) is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as a group 2B substance, thereby indicating a tendency to being carcinogenic for humans (Hallenbeck, 1993)
Summary
Heavy metals represent a significant ecological and public health threat, through their toxicity and ability to accumulate in living organisms (Çavas, 2008). Mercury is considered one of the most dangerous of the heavy metals, through its high toxicity, bioaccumulative properties, and other deleterious effects on biota, this including genetic alteration or mutagenesis (WHO, 1990). NAs and MNs are considered as indicators of cytotoxicity and genetic toxicology, respectively (Çavas et al, 2005; Grisolia et al, 2009).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
