Chronic exposure to polystyrene microplastics disrupts reproductive functions and hormonal balance in Zebrafish, Danio rerio: A dose- and time-dependent study
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Microplastic pollution is a growing global concern with potential adverse effects on aquatic ecosystems and organisms. Although many studies have documented the presence of microplastics in aquatic environments, information on their long-term impacts on aquatic life remains limited. The current study aimed to investigate the effects of polystyrene microplastics on reproductive, hormonal, and molecular indices in zebrafish (Danio rerio) over 21- and 60-day periods. Zebrafish were exposed to various concentrations of polystyrene microplastics (0 (control), 20, 200, and 2000 µg/L). Several parameters were evaluated, including absolute and relative fecundity, gonadosomatic index, oocyte diameter, sex hormone levels (T and E2), cyp19a gene expression, and fertilization, hatching, and larval survival rates. The results indicated that as concentration and exposure duration increased, microplastic accumulation in fish bodies also increased. During the 60-day period, significant decreases were observed in relative fertility, gonadosomatic index, and oocyte diameter. Levels of sex hormones and cyp19a gene expression decreased significantly, indicating a disruption of the reproductive axis. In addition, fertilization, hatching, and larval survival rates were significantly reduced in high-concentration treatments, especially in the long term. Polystyrene microplastics can significantly impair zebrafish reproductive performance by disrupting physiological, hormonal, and genetic processes. These findings emphasize the need to investigate and manage plastic pollutants in aquatic ecosystems to prevent their long-term consequences on aquatic populations.
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