The Use of Oxidative Stress Parameters of Bivalve Mollusks Dreissena polymorpha (Pallas, 1771) as Biomarkers for Ecotoxicological Assessment of Environment

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate biomarkers of oxidative stress: сatalase (CAT), glutathione (GR), glutathione S-transferase (GST), low-molecular antioxidant—reduced glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxide oxidation marker—malondialdehyde (MDA) and to measure heavy metal (НМ) concentrations in Dreissena polymorpha soft tissues at three different sampling sites in the Rybinsk reservoir (one of the largest in Europe) in order to assess exposure to anthropogenic pollution. The reservoir has a considerable source of pollution in its northern part due to a large industrial complex in Cherepovets. Mussels were collected at three sites which differ in the levels of anthropogenic load: more contaminated sites 1 (Cherepovets) and 2 (Koprino). Site 3 (Vesyegonsk) is relatively clean and is used as a control. In soft tissues of mussels from sites 1 and 2 significantly higher concentrations of HM (Pb, V, Cr, Ni, Cu, Mn, Zn, Cd) were detected than in mussels from site 3. Mussels from sites 1 and 2 subjected to long-term contamination from Cherepovets industry showed considerable CAT, MDA and GSH induction compared to mussels from relatively clean site 3. The correlation was found between elevated HM content and increased levels of CAT, MDA and GSH. The obtained data suggest that HM may contribute to the oxidative stress induction in mussel. MDA, CAT and GSH sensitivity in D. polymorpha demonstrated a possible use of these biomarkers in freshwater.