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Subcellular metal distributions and metallothionein associations in rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis) from Southeastern Brazil

  • Fernanda Monteiro
  • Leila S. Lemos
  • Jailson Fulgencio Moura
  • Rafael Christian Chávez Rocha
  • Isabel Moreira
  • Ana Paula Di Beneditto
  • Helena A. Kehrig
  • Isabella C.A.C. Bordon
  • Salvatore Siciliano
  • Tatiana D. Saint'Pierre
  • Rachel Ann Hauser-Davis
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Abstract

Metals are subject to internal subcellular compartmentalization, altering their bioavailability. Thus, subcellular metal assessments are crucial in biomonitoring efforts. Metal distribution in three subcellular fractions (insoluble - ISF, thermolabile - TLF and thermostable - TSF) were determined by ICP-MS in Steno bredanensis specimens from Southeastern Brazil. Associations between metals, metallothionein (MT) and reduced glutathione (GSH) were also investigated. Differential metal-detoxification mechanisms were observed. MT detoxification was mostly noted for As, Cd, and Pb, while Cu, Cr, Hg, Ni, Se and Ti displayed lower MT-associations. Fe, Zn and Se, on the other hand, were poorly associated to MT, and mostly present in the ISF, indicating low bioavailability. This is the first report on subcellular Sn and Ti distribution in cetaceans and the first in this species in Brazil. Potential protective roles of essential metals against toxic elements are postulated. This study indicates that important biochemical detoxification information is obtained through subcellular fraction analyses in marine mammals.

Cite this activity

Monteiro F., Lemos L.S., Moura J.F., Rocha R.C.C., Moreira I., Di Beneditto A.P., Kehrig H.A., Bordon I.C.A.C., Siciliano S., Saint'Pierre T.D. and Hauser-Davis R.A. (2019) Subcellular metal distributions and metallothionein associations in rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis) from Southeastern Brazil. Marine Pollution Bulletin 146: 263-273. 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.06.038

Details

Date 20.06.2019
Journal Marine Pollution Bulletin
Volume 146
Pages 263-273
Open Access Closed Access
Open Access Status Closed Access
Eprints_link https://cris.leibniz-zmt.de/id/eprint/2208
Peer-Reviewed

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