Toxicity Of CuSO4 Research Articles

Toxic Effects of Imidacloprid, Copper Sulfate, and Their Combinations on Biomolecular and Oxidative/Antioxidant Biomarkers in the Tissues of Oreochromis niloticus.

The wide-ranging use of heavy metals and pesticides worldwide and their irreversible accumulation in aquatic ecosystems is a major concern. As the range of household and agricultural chemicals increases, water pollution is trending from the toxic effects of a single agent to complex agent pollution that threatens aquatic ecosystems. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of pesticides (imidacloprid, IMI) and metals (copper sulfate, CuSO4) on oxidative stress biomarkers, antioxidant enzymes, and biomolecular parameters. The present study on the individual and combined effects of Oreochromis niloticus copper sulfate (CuSO4; 1ppm), imidacloprid (IMI; 10 and 50ppm), and IMI + CuSO4 (IMI10 + CuSO4, IMI50 + CuSO4) groups for 14days. In this context, oxidative stress/antioxidant markers (SOD, CAT, GST, and GSH) and biomolecular markers including HSP70, 8-OHdG, PC, and TBARS levels were examined in fish liver and kidney tissues, which are detoxification organs. The results indicated that IMI and CuSO4 toxicity alone and in combination altered oxidative stress/antioxidant markers and biomolecular parameters; moreover, 14days of exposure to the combination of CuSO4 and imidacloprid in particular exhibited a synergistic effect and caused oxidative toxicity. These findings highlighted the importance of evaluating mixtures of pesticides and metals and that the results show a remarkably synergistic effect. It can be concluded that these biomarkers are important indicators of physiological changes in living organisms.

Toxicity of CuSO4.5H2O on Some Snails in Al-Shamiyah River, Al-Diwaniyah City

The toxicity of copper sulfate was tested as part of the current research (CuSO4.5H2O) as it impacts freshwater snails of three species. Species Melanoides tuberculata, Melanopsis praemorsa, and Viviparus bengalensis are chosen for conducting the current research. Stock solution of copper sulphate was prepared previously and series of concentrations were conducted and were 0, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 0.9, and 1 ppm. Then, the mortality of tested species were recorded at each intermittent periods and were 24, 48, 72, 96 hours, respectively of which death has been noticed and recorded. LC50 values were ranged between 0.21 to 0.41, as recommended for application in the farms. To conclude, copper sulphate is highly toxic to laboratory test organisms. More research in this regard should be taken into account in agricultural and environmental work and avoid excessive use of toxic substance as they are common pollutants to freshwaters such as rivers.

Comparison of the effects of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) and copper (II) sulfate on oxidative stress parameters in rainbow trout hatchlings (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Nanoparticles of copper oxide, released uncontrollably into the environment, pose a threat to living organisms. One of the mechanisms of their toxicity is the induction of oxidative stress, contributing to the disruption of antioxidant mechanisms. The aim of the present study was to assess the degree and toxic dose of copper oxide nanoparticle (CuO-NPs) associated with the induction of oxidative stress and compare them to the toxicity of copper sulfate (VI) (CuSO4) by measuring the expression of genes encoding some key enzymes involved in protection against oxidative stress: glutathione peroxidase (gpx), cytochrome P450 (cyp1a), heat shock protein (hsp70) and superoxide dismutase (sod). Hatchlings of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) were used as biological material. The test individuals were exposed for 2 hours to CuO-NPs and CuSO4 in the concentration range of 4–256 mg dm−3. Individuals exposed to all concentrations of CuO-NPs showed an increase in the expression of gpx, cyp1a and hsp70 genes, and a decrease in sod gene expression, while the hatchlings exposed to CuSO4 exhibited an increase in the expression of all genes. The expression of hsp70 and sod genes in the hatchlings exposed to CuSO4 was higher than in the CuO-NP treatment, while the expression levels of gpx and cyp1a were similar. Based on the obtained results, potentially higher toxicity of CuSO4 was observed in the hatchlings of Oncorhynchus mykiss. However, the elevated expression of gpx, cyp1a and hsp70 after the exposure to CuO-NPs, indicates toxicity via oxidative stress. The decrease (sod in hatchlings exposed to CuO-NPs) or increase of gene expression was not dose-dependent. The presented study confirms a need for further research regarding the toxicity of metal nanoparticles to aquatic organisms and the necessity for monitoring the release of CuO-NPs into the aquatic environment.

Assessing the disparity: comparative toxicity of Copper in zebrafish larvae exposes alarming consequences of permissible concentrations in Brazil

ABSTRACT Copper (Cu) is a naturally occurring metal with essential micronutrient properties. However, this metal might also pose increased adverse environmental and health risks due to industrial and agricultural activities. In Brazil, the maximum allowable concentration of Cu in drinking water is 2 mg/L. Despite this standard, the impact of such concentrations on aquatic organisms remains unexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the toxicity of CuSO4 using larval zebrafish at environmentally relevant concentrations. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae at 72 hr post-fertilization (hpf) were exposed to nominal CuSO4 concentrations ranging from 0.16 to 48 mg/L to determine the median lethal concentration (LC50), established at 8.4 mg/L. Subsequently, non-lethal concentrations of 0.16, 0.32, or 1.6 mg/L were selected for assessing CuSO4 -induced toxicity. Morphological parameters, including body length, yolk sac area, and swim bladder area, were adversely affected by CuSO4 exposure, particularly at 1.6 mg/L (3.31 mm ±0.1, 0.192 mm2 ±0.01, and 0.01 mm2 ±0.05, respectively). In contrast, the control group exhibited values of 3.62 mm ±0.09, 0.136 mm2 ±0.013, and 0.3 mm2 ±0.06, respectively. Behavioral assays demonstrated impairments in escape response and swimming capacity, accompanied by increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation. In addition, decreased levels of non-protein thiols and reduced cellular viability were noted. Data demonstrated that exposure to CuSO4 at similar concentrations as those permitted in Brazil for Cu adversely altered morphological, biochemical, and behavioral endpoints in zebrafish larvae. This study suggests that the permissible Cu concentrations in Brazil need to be reevaluated, given the potential enhanced adverse health risks of exposure to environmental metal contamination.

Single and combined effects of CuSO4 and polyethylene microplastics on biochemical endpoints and physiological impacts on the narrow-clawed crayfish Pontastacusleptodactylus

This study investigated the toxicity of polyethylene microplastics (MPs; <0.02 mm) and CuSO4, alone and in combination, on the freshwater crayfish Pontastacus leptodactylus. In this study, the crayfish were exposed to PE-MPs (0.0, 0.5, and 1 mg L−1) and CuSO4·5H2O (0.0, 0.5, and 1 mg L−1) for a period of 28 days. Next, multi-biomarkers, including biochemical, immunological, and oxidative stress indicators were analyzed. Results showed that co-exposure to PE-MPs and CuSO4 resulted in increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and decreased alkaline phosphatase (ALP), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and gamma-glutamyl-transferase (GGT). Triglycerides, cholesterol, glucose, and albumin content also increased. Although no significant change was observed in lysozyme and phenoloxidase activities in crayfish co-exposed to 0.5 mg L−1 MPs and 0.5 mg L−1 CuSO4, their activities were significantly decreased in other experimental groups. Oxidative stress parameters in hepatopancreas indicated increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, but decreased catalase (CAT), glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH), and cellular total antioxidant (TAC). Results showed that the sub-chronic toxicity of CuSO4 was confirmed. The study confirmed the toxicity of CuSO4 and found that higher concentrations led to more severe effects. Co-exposure to PE-MPs and CuSO4 primarily compromised the endpoints, showing increased toxicity when both pollutants were present in higher concentrations. The activities of POX, LYZ, ALP, GGT, LDH, and CAT were suppressed by both CuSO4 and MPs. However, a synergistic increase was observed in other measured biomarkers in crayfish co-exposed to CuSO4 and MPs.

Synergistic Effect of 2,4-D Herbicide and Copper Sulphates in Control the Snail Bulinus Truncatus by Using Bioassay

The current study was designed to examine the synergistic effects of 2,4-D and copper sulfates in controlling Bulinus truncatus snail (the vector of urinary Schistosomiasis). Freshwater snails B. truncatus (Audouin, 1827) were exposed to copper sulphates (CuSO4) and the herbicide (2,4-D). The mortality was assessed for 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours of exposure time. The toxicity of CuSO4 showed to be more than the toxicity of 2,4-D to B. truncatus snail. Such, the toxicity of both substances (2,4-D and CuSO4) appeared to be more toxic than each substance toxicity alone. A lethal concentration means of CuSO4 (LC50) was 0.44 ppm, while the 2,4-D was 0.38 ppm. In addition, the mixture of 2,4-D and CuSO4 (1ml+2g) was 0.22 ppm while the mixture (2ml+1g) was 0.26ppm. The study was concluded the synergistic toxicity of a mixture of two substances used. Also, mixing the both substances was produced more toxic effect than the prober substances alone. Protection of the environment must be taken in considerations when use these materials to kill the snails. The results of this study showed that the mortality rates were increased with increasing of concentrations used in treatment. The study was improved that the mixture of 2,4-D and CuSO4 has synergistic toxicity when mixed together.

Toxicity of Copper Sulfate to Largemouth Bass Fry in Naturally Soft Water

AbstractThe use of copper sulfate pentahydrate (herein, designated CuSO4) for fungus control on fish embryos is extremely effective and economical for farmers in waters with moderate or high alkalinity/hardness; however, fry toxicity in low alkalinity/hardness waters is a concern. The present study determined the acute toxicity of CuSO4 to Largemouth Bass Micropterus salmoides in naturally soft water (42 mg/L alkalinity [as CaCO3], 41 mg/L hardness [as CaCO3]). Median lethal concentration (LC50) values at 24 h were 3.97 mg/L CuSO4 for yolk‐sac fry and 5.24 mg/L CuSO4 for swim‐up fry. Most importantly for farmers, the no observed effect concentration (NOEC; the highest concentration tested to not cause fry mortality) was 0.625 mg/L CuSO4 for both stages of fry. Regarding the safe use of CuSO4 for fungus control on Largemouth Bass embryos, this research was done to demonstrate CuSO4 toxicity to Largemouth Bass fry in soft water.

Real-time determination of water status upon simultaneous zebrafish exposure to sublethal concentrations of CuSO4

Water pollution from commonly occurring contaminants (metals, xenobiotics, etc.) is a serious global problem. Copper is a commonly occurring water contaminant. A variety of physiological and biological methods have been developed to monitor water quality. The assessment of biological responses is an effective method for identifying the harmful effects of contaminants on ecosystems. Fish is a highly recommended animal model in water quality monitoring. Swimming consistency (firmness) and respiratory metabolism (oxygen consumption rate, carbon dioxide excretion rate and respiratory quotient) are essential for fish to maintain body homeostasis toward coping with environmental stress. We exposed zebrafish to different concentrations (Treatment I-0.1 mg/L and Treatment II-1.58 mg/L) of CuSO4. We have continuously quantified the strength of behavior (swimming consistency) and physiological (respiratory rates) biomarkers for ten days using an online monitoring system of swimming behavior and external respiration. Swimming consistency and respiratory rates of zebrafish (p<0.05) decreased in the CuSO4-treated groups compared to the control group. Avoidance behavior has led to an endpoint behavior at copperiedus. The time-delayed toxic effect has resulted in CuSO4 treatment groups. We checked for swimming consistency aberration on the artificial neural array, Self-organizing map (SOM). Circadian rhythms were influenced by prolonged exposure to CuSO4 toxicity. A concentration- and duration-dependent behavior anomaly was noted in this study. Swimming behavior and respiratory metabolism patterns are sensitive non-invasive stress biomarkers for water quality monitoring studies.

Alleviative effects of a novel strain Bacillus coagulans XY2 on copper-induced toxicity in zebrafish larvae

Copper (Cu) is a kind of micronutrient element that is essential for human metabolism. However, it is also considered as an environmental pollutant which is toxic to organisms at a high concentration level. Probiotics, regarded as beneficial microorganisms for promoting human health, have functions of antioxidant capacity, immune-enhancing properties, intestinal barrier protection and regulation. Several studies have reported that probiotics show positive effects on alleviating and intervening heavy metals toxicity. However, evidence for relieving copper-induced toxicity by probiotics is still limited. In this study, we firstly conducted a zebrafish larvae model to screen out microorganisms which are helpful for CuSO4 toxicity resistance and one novel strain named as Bacillus coagulans XY2 was discovered with the best protective activity. B. coagulans XY2 significantly reduced the mortality of zebrafish larvae exposed to 10 µmol/L CuSO4 for 96 hr, as well as alleviated the neutrophils infiltration in the larvae lateral line under a 2 hr exposure. B. coagulans XY2 exhibited a high in vitro antioxidant activity and against CuSO4-induced oxidative stress in zebrafish larvae by up-regulating sod1, gstp1 and cat gene transcriptional levels and relevant enzymatic activities. CuSO4 stimulated the inflammation process resulting in obvious increases of gene il-1β and il-10 transcription, which were suppressed by B. coagulans XY2 intervention. Overall, our results underline the bio-function of B. coagulans XY2 on protecting zebrafish larvae from copper toxicity, suggesting the potential application values of probiotics in copper toxicity alleviation on human and the environment.

Mitigating the Growth, Biochemical Changes, Genotoxic and Pathological Effects of Copper Toxicity in Broiler Chickens by Supplementing Vitamins C and E.

Simple SummaryCopper (Cu) is a trace element necessary for biological utility; nevertheless, it can produce significant harmful impacts when existing in abundance. This study examined the efficiency of vitamin C and vitamin E in alleviating the biochemical, genotoxicity, and pathological alterations in the liver induced by copper sulfate (CuSO4) toxicity in chickens. The broilers were fed on five experimental diets; basal diet with no additives or basal diets supplemented with 300 mg CuSO4/kg, CuSO4 + 250 mg Vit. C/kg diet, CuSO4 + 250 mg Vit. E/kg diet, CuSO4 + 250 mg Vit. C/kg diet + 250 mg Vit. E/kg diet for six weeks. The obtained results suggested that addition of vitamin C and E, especially in combination, was beneficial for alleviating the harmful effects of CuSO4 toxicity on growth performance and liver histoarchitecture in broiler chickens.This experiment was carried out to explore the efficiency of an individual or combined doses of vitamin C (Vit. C) and vitamin E (Vit. E) in alleviating biochemical, genotoxicity, and pathological changes in the liver induced by copper sulfate (CuSO4) toxicity in broiler chickens. Two hundred and fifty-one-day-old broiler chicks were haphazardly allotted into five groups (five replicates/group, ten chicks/replicate). The birds were fed five experimental diets; (1) basal diet with no additives (CON), (2) basal diets supplemented with 300 mg CuSO4/kg diet (CuSO4), (3) basal diets supplemented with 300 mg CuSO4/kg diet + 250 mg Vit. C /kg diet, (4) basal diets supplemented with 300 mg CuSO4/kg diet +250 mg Vit. E /kg diet, (5) basal diets supplemented with 300 mg CuSO4/kg diet + 250 mg Vit. C /kg diet + 250 mg Vit. E /kg diet for six weeks. The results displayed that CuSO4-intoxicated birds had significantly (p < 0.05) decreased bodyweight, weight gain, and feed intake with increased feed conversion ratio from the 2nd week till the 6th week compared with the CON. However, these changes were minimized by single or combined supplementation of vitamin C and E. The FCR was insignificantly different in birds-fed diets complemented with vitamin C and E singly or in combination from the 3rd week of age compared to the CON. Serum aminotransferases (ALT, AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were elevated in CuSO4-intoxicated birds (p < 0.05). Additionally, they showed a drop in serum total protein (TP), albumin, globulins, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels compared to the CON (p < 0.05). Concomitantly, histopathological and DNA changes were perceived in the liver of CuSO4-intoxicated birds. Co-supplementation of Vit. C and Vit. E single-handedly or combined with CuSO4-intoxicated chickens enhanced the performance traits and abovementioned changes, especially with those given combinations of vitamins. From the extant inquiry, it could be established that supplementation of vitamin C and E was beneficial for mitigating the harmful effects of CuSO4 toxicity on growth performance and liver histoarchitecture in broiler chickens.

Alleviating Effects of Vitamins C and E Supplementation on Oxidative Stress, Hematobiochemical, and Histopathological Alterations Caused by Copper Toxicity in Broiler Chickens.

Simple SummaryExcessive copper in diets is associated with numerous disadvantageous impacts on poultry. The current study evaluated the efficacy of vitamin C and vitamin E in mitigating oxidative stress, hematobiochemical, and histopathological changes in the kidney induced by copper sulfate (CuSO4) toxicity in broiler chickens. The birds were assigned to five experimental groups: 1st group—basal diet with no additives (control group), 2nd group—basal diet complemented with CuSO4 (300 mg/kg diet), 3rd group—basal diet with CuSO4 (300 mg/kg diet) + vitamin C (250 mg/kg diet), 4th group—basal diet with CuSO4 (300 mg/kg diet) + vitamin E (250 mg/kg diet), and 5th group—basal diet with CuSO4 (300 mg/kg diet) + vitamin C (250 mg/kg diet) + vitamin E (250 mg/kg diet). The current study’s findings showed the possible preventive impacts of dietary antioxidants on hematobiochemical alterations, oxidative stress, and kidney damage induced by CuSO4 toxicity.The current investigation evaluated the alleviating effects of vitamin C and vitamin E on oxidative stress, hematobiochemical, and histopathological changes in the kidney induced by copper sulfate (CuSO4) toxicity in chickens. Two hundred and fifty-one-day-old male broiler chicks were randomly allotted into five experimental groups (five replicates/group, ten chicks/replicate): 1st group—basal diet with no additives (control group), 2nd group—basal diet complemented with CuSO4 (300 mg/kg diet), 3rd group—basal diet with CuSO4 (300 mg/kg diet) + vitamin C (250 mg/kg diet), 4th group—basal diet with CuSO4 (300 mg/kg diet) + vitamin E (250 mg/kg diet), and 5th group—basal diet with CuSO4 (300 mg/kg diet) + vitamin C (250 mg/kg diet) + vitamin E (250 mg/kg diet) for a 42 day feeding period. The results showed a significant reduction in red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, and hematocrit values as well as total leukocyte counts (WBCs), lymphocyte, heterophil, and monocyte counts in the CuSO4-intoxicated birds (2.42 × 106/µL, 9.54 g/dL, 26.02%, 15.80 × 103/µL, 7.86 × 103/µL, 5.26 × 103/µL, and 1.18 × 103/µL, respectively, at the 6th week) compared to (2.79 × 106/µL, 10.98 g/dL, 28.46%, 21.07 × 103/µL, 10.84 × 103/µL, 7.12 × 103/µL, and 1.60 × 103/µL, respectively) in the control group. Moreover, CuSO4-intoxicated birds showed hypoglycemia with a rise in serum uric acid and creatinine levels (122.68, 5.18, and 0.78 mg/dL at the 6th week) compared to (159.46, 4.41, and 0.61 mg/dL) in the control group. The CuSO4 toxicity in birds induced oxidative stress, indicated by a high serum malondialdehyde level (MDA) and diminished activity of the antioxidant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)) (2.01 nmol/mL, 37.66 U/mL, and 2.91 U/mL, respectively, at the 6th week) compared to (1.34 nmol/mL, 57.00 U/mL, 4.99 U/mL, respectively) in the control group. High doses of Cu exposure caused severe microscopic alterations in kidney architecture. The addition of vitamins C and E, singularly or in combination, displayed a beneficial effect in alleviating these harmful effects of Cu toxicity. These findings showed the possible mitigating impacts of dietary antioxidants on the hematobiochemical alterations, oxidative stress, and kidney damage induced by CuSO4 toxicity.

Antibiotics induced alterations in cell density, photosynthesis, microcystin synthesis and proteomic expression of Microcystis aeruginosa during CuSO4 treatment

Antibiotic contaminants have the potential to interfere with the control of cyanobacterial bloom through generating hormesis in cyanobacteria at current contamination level of ng L−1. This study investigated the influence of a mixture of four frequently detected antibiotics, amoxicillin, ciprofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole and tetracycline, during the treatment of Microcystis aeruginosa by copper sulfate (CuSO4) algaecide. CuSO4 significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited cell density, growth rate, Fv/Fm value, chlorophyll a content and microcystin production ability of M. aeruginosa in a dose-dependent manner at application doses of 0.01-0.05 mg L−1. Besides, CuSO4 inhibited oxidation-reduction process, photosynthesis and biosynthesis in M. aeruginosa at the proteomic level. Preventative application of CuSO4 to a low density (4 × 105 cells mL−1) of M. aeruginosa effectively prevented the formation of bloom at low CuSO4 doses, which is a possible route for eliminating the negative effects of CuSO4 algaecide in aquatic environments. The presence of mixed antibiotics alleviated the toxicity of CuSO4 in M. aeruginosa, through the downregulation of cation transport proteins and the upregulation of proteins related with chlorophyll a synthesis, photosynthesis, gene expression and oxidation-reduction. Mixed antibiotics also promoted microcystin synthesis in CuSO4 treated cells through the upregulation of microcystin synthetases. Mixed antibiotics significantly (p < 0.05) increased cell density, growth rate, Fv/Fm value, chlorophyll a content and microcystin production ability in CuSO4 treated cells at test concentrations of 80 and 200 ng L−1. A no-impact threshold of 20 ng L−1 for mixed antibiotics (5 ng L−1 for each antibiotic) was suggested for eliminating the interference of antibiotic contaminants on cyanobacterial bloom control.

Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties of the Ethanol Extract of Clerodendrum Cyrtophyllum Turcz in Copper Sulfate-Induced Inflammation in Zebrafish.

Oxidative stress and inflammation are commonly present in many chronic diseases. These responses are closely related to pathophysiological processes. The inflammatory process can induce oxidative stress and vice versa through the activation of multiple pathways. Therefore, agents with antioxidant and/or anti-inflammatory activities are very useful in the treatment of many pathologies. Clerodendrum cyrthophyllum Turcz, a plant belonging to the Verbenaceae family, is used in Vietnamese traditional medicine for treating migraine, hypertension, inflammation of the throat, and rheumatic arthritis. Despite its usefulness, studies on its biological properties are still scarce. In this study, ethanol extract (EE) of leaves of C. cyrtophyllum showed protective activity against CuSO4 toxicity. The protective activity was proven to relate to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. EE exhibited relatively high antioxidant activity (IC50 of 16.45 µg/mL) as measured by DPPH assay. In an in vivo anti-antioxidant test, three days post fertilization (dpf) zebrafish larvae were treated with different concentrations of EE for 1 h and then exposed to 10 µM CuSO4 for 20 min to induce oxidative stress. Fluorescent probes were used to detect and quantify oxidative stress by measuring the fluorescent intensity (FI) in larvae. FI significantly decreased in the presence of EE at 5 and 20 µg/mL, demonstrating EE’s profound antioxidant effects, reducing or preventing oxidative stress from CuSO4. Moreover, the co-administration of EE also protected zebrafish larvae against oxidative damage from CuSO4 through down-regulation of hsp70 and gadd45bb expression and upregulation of sod. Due to copper accumulation in zebrafish tissues, the damage and oxidative stress were exacerbated overtime, resulting in the upregulation of genes related to inflammatory processes such as cox-2, pla2, c3a, mpo, and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (il-1ß, il-8, tnf-α, and il-10, respectively). However, the association of CuSO4 with EE significantly decreased the expression of cox-2, pla2, c3a, mpo, il-8, and il-1ß. Taken together, the results suggest that EE has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and may be useful in the treatment of various inflammatory diseases.

Toxicities of copper oxide nanomaterial and copper sulphate in early life stage zebrafish: Effects of pH and intermittent pulse exposure.

Effort has been made to standardise regulatory ecotoxicity tests for engineered nanomaterials (ENMs), but the environmental realism of altered water quality and/or pulse exposure to these pollutants should be considered. This study aimed to investigate the relative toxicity to early life-stage zebrafish of CuO ENMs at acid pH and then under pulse exposure conditions, all compared to CuSO4. At all pH values, CuSO4 was more toxic to zebrafish than CuO ENMs. Additions of H+ were protective of CuSO4 toxicity, with median lethal concentrations LC50 (with 95% confidence intervals) of: 0.36 (0.33-0.40), 0.22 (0.20-0.24) and 0.27 (0.25-0.29) mg L-1 at pH 5, pH 6 and pH 7, respectively. In contrast, the toxicity of CuO ENMs increased with acidity; LC50 values were: 6.6 (4.5-8.5), 19.4 (11.6-27.2) and >100mgL-1 at pH 5, pH 6 and pH 7, respectively. The increased toxicity of the CuO ENMs in acid water corresponded with greater dissolution of dissolved Cu from the particles at low pH, suggesting free Cu2+ ion delivery to the zebrafish was responsible for the pH-effect. In continuous 96h exposures to the substances at the LC10 values and at pH 6, both CuSO4 and CuO ENMs caused Cu accumulation, inhibition of Na+/K+-ATPase and depletion of total glutathione in zebrafish. However, two 24h pulses of CuSO4 or CuO ENMs at the same peak concentration caused similar effects to the continuous 96h exposure, despite the shorter exposure durations of the former; suggesting that the pulses were more hazardous than the continuous exposure. In conclusion, the current water quality correction for pH with respect to Cu toxicity to freshwater fish should not be applied to the nano form. Crucially, CuO ENMs are more toxic in pulse than continuous exposure and new corrections for both water pH and the Cu exposure profile are needed for environmental risk assessment.

The Reduction of CuSO4 Toxicity in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus, 1758) After Preexposure to CaCO3

The Reduction of CuSO4 Toxicity in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus, 1758) After Preexposure to CaCO3

Inhibiting fungus on largemouth bass eggs with copper sulfate and its toxicity to fry and juveniles

AbstractThis study determined the effectiveness of copper sulfate (CuSO4) to inhibit fungal growth (caused by Saprolegnia spp.) on largemouth bass (LMB) eggs spawned on/in fiber mats in very high‐alkalinity/‐hardness waters; experiments also determined the toxicity of CuSO4 to LMB fry and juveniles. An untreated control and three CuSO4 concentrations (10, 20, and 40 mg/L) were tested under a flow‐through scenario in the effectiveness experiment. Eggs were treated daily until hatching began. Fungal load at the time of hatch had a total area &gt; 3.0 cm2 in the untreated controls, total area 1.0 to &lt;2.0 cm2 in the 10 and 20 mg/L CuSO4 treatments, and total area &gt; 1.0 cm2 in the 40 mg/L CuSO4 treatments. Fungus samples were identified as Saprolegnia australis. The 24‐hr median lethal concentration (LC50) values on the LMB yolk‐sac and swim‐up fry were 32.0 and 4.6 mg/L CuSO4, respectively; the No Observed Effect Concentrations (NOEC) were 16.0 and 0.125 mg/L CuSO4, respectively. Juvenile LMB were extremely tolerant to CuSO4, and their 24‐hr LC50 value was 185.5 mg/L; the NOEC was 64 mg/L. This study indicates that CuSO4 can be an important resource for hatcheries to control egg fungus, especially in high‐alkalinity/‐hardness waters.

Using 3D gastrointestinal tract in vitro models with microfold cells and mucus secreting ability to assess the hazard of copper oxide nanomaterials

BackgroundCopper oxide nanomaterials (CuO NMs) are exploited in many products including inks, cosmetics, textiles, wood preservatives and food contact materials. Their incorporation into these products may enhance oral exposure in consumer, environmental and occupational settings. Undifferentiated and differentiated monocultures of Caco-2 cells are commonly used to assess NM toxicity to the intestine in vitro. However, the integration of other cell types into Caco-2 in vitro models increases their physiological relevance. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the toxicity of CuO NMs and copper sulphate (CuSO4) to intestinal microfold (M) cell (Caco-2/Raji B) and mucus secreting (Caco-2/HT29-MTX) co-culture in vitro models via assessment of their impact on barrier integrity, viability and interleukin (IL)-8 secretion. The translocation of CuO NMs and CuSO4 across the intestinal barrier was also investigated in vitro.ResultsCuO NMs and CuSO4 impaired the function of the intestinal barrier in the co-culture models [as indicated by a reduction in transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and Zonular occludens (ZO-1) staining intensity]. Cu translocation was observed in both models but was greatest in the Caco-2/Raji B co-culture. CuO NMs and CuSO4 stimulated an increase in IL-8 secretion, which was greatest in the Caco-2/HT29-MTX co-culture model. CuO NMs and CuSO4 did not stimulate a loss of cell viability, when assessed using light microscopy, nuclei counts and scanning electron microscopy. CuO NMs demonstrated a relatively similar level of toxicity to CuO4 in both Caco-2/Raji B and Caco-2/HT29-MTX co- culture models.ConclusionsThe Caco-2/Raji B co-culture model was more sensitive to CuO NM and CuSO4 toxicity than the Caco-2/HT29-MTX co-culture model. However, both co-culture models were less sensitive to CuO NM and CuSO4 toxicity than simple monocultures of undifferentiated and differentiated Caco-2 cells, which are more routinely used to investigate NM toxicity to the intestine. Obtained data can therefore feed into the design of future studies which assess the toxicity of substances (e.g. NMs) and pathogens to the intestine (e.g. by informing model and endpoint selection). However, more testing with a wider panel of NMs would be beneficial in order to help select which in vitro models and endpoints to prioritise when screening the safety of ingested NMs. Comparisons with in vivo findings will also be essential to identify the most suitable in vitro model to screen the safety of ingested NMs.

Combined Effects of Test Media and Dietary Algae on the Toxicity of CuO and ZnO Nanoparticles to Freshwater Microcrustaceans Daphnia magna and Heterocypris incongruens: Food for Thought.

The chemical composition of the test medium as well as the presence of algae (microcrustaceans’ food) affects the bioavailability and thus the toxicity of metal nanoparticles (NP) to freshwater microcrustaceans. This study evaluated the effect of the addition of algae (Rapidocelis subcapitata at 7.5 × 106 cells/mL) on the toxicity of CuO (primary size 22–25 nm) and ZnO NP (10–15 nm) to planktic Daphnia magna and benthic Heterocypris incongruens in artificial (mineral) and natural freshwater (lake water). The toxicity of ionic controls, CuSO4 and ZnSO4, was evaluated in parallel. When algae were added and the toxicity was tested in mineral medium, 48 h EC50 of CuO and ZnO NP to D. magna was ~2 mg metal/L and 6-day LC50 of H. incongruens was 1.1 mg metal/L for CuO and 0.36 mg metal/L for ZnO. The addition of algae to D. magna test medium mitigated the toxicity of CuO and ZnO NP 4–11-fold when the test was conducted in natural water but not in the artificial freshwater. The addition of algae mitigated the toxicity of CuSO4 (but not ZnSO4) to D. magna at least 3-fold, whatever the test medium. In the 6-day H. incongruens tests (all exposures included algae), only up to 2-fold differences in metal NP and salt toxicity between mineral and natural test media were observed. To add environmental relevance to NP hazard assessment for the freshwater ecosystem, toxicity tests could be conducted in natural water and organisms could be fed during the exposure.

Prophylactic Administration of Nanocurcumin Abates the Incidence of Liver Toxicity Induced by an Overdose of Copper Sulfate: Role of CYP4502E1, NF-κB and Bax Expressions.

Background:The consequences of excess copper in human tissue are the alterations in the oxidative stress markers and peroxidative damage of membrane lipids. Unselective copper binding may be the clue to damaging impact to protein construction and hence modifying their biological functions. The aim of this study is to match the hepatoprotective efficacy of curcumin (CM) or nanocurcumin (NCM) with that of desferrioxamine (DSF; standard heavy metal chelator) against toxic doses of copper sulphate (CuSO4).Method:All treatments were given simultaneously with CuSO4 for 7 days.Result:CuSO4 administration elevated serum alanine transaminase, and hepatic nitric oxide (NO), lipid peroxide, and caspase-3 as well as protein expression of cytochrome P4502E1, and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and Bax gene expressions. On the other hand, hepatic levels of reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and interleukin-10 were decreased, whereas DNA degradation was increased as well compared with the control group. The administration of the aforementioned antioxidants ameliorated all the previous altered measured parameters. Interestingly, NCM achieved the most pronounced hepatoprotective effect nearly equivalent to that of DSF.Conclusion:It was concluded that NCM is considered a promising candidate against CuSO4 toxicity, and cytochrome P450, NF-κB, and Bax are involved in its toxicity and treatment.

Biochemical CuSO4 Toxicity in Drosophila melanogaster Depends on Sex and Developmental Stage of Exposure.

Copper is a transition metal that exists in different chemical forms (e.g., Cu2+,Cu+, and Cu0) and at high concentrations it is toxic. Here, we investigated the Cu2+-induced toxicity in Drosophila melanogaster, evaluating the survival, locomotion, and the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) enzymes. Flies were exposed to Cu2+(0.1-1mmol CuSO4/kg of diet or approximately 0.1-1mM Cu2+) and allowed to mate during 24h. GST and AChE enzymes were evaluated in the larvae and in the head and the body (thorax + abdomen) of the adult male and females flies. The total number of adult females (0.4-1mM) and males (0.75 and 1mM) was decreased by CuSO4. The climbing ability was hampered in flies exposed to 1mM Cu2+. In larvae, Cu2+(0.4-1mM) increased AChE activity (P < 0.002). In males' heads, 0.4mM Cu2+ increased the AChE activity (P <0.01). In adults' bodies, Cu2+inhibited the activity in both sexes, but with greater effectiveness in males (0.1 to 1mM) than in females (1mM). Regarding GST activity, 0.1mM Cu2+increased, but 1mM decrease GST in larvae. In the head of flies, Cu2+decreased the GST activity at intermediate (0.4mM) and increased GST at the highest concentration (1mM) in males. In the bodies, the effect of Cu2+was similar. In conclusion, Cu2+exposure in D. melanogaster disrupted locomotion and enzymatic parameters that can be related to changes in AChE and in the detoxifying GST enzyme.