Hepatotoxic Effects of Gaseous Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂), and Their Mixture on Sea Bass (Centropristis striata): Hematological, Biochemical and Genotoxic Studies

This study meticulously explores the intricate hepatotoxic effects stemming from acute exposure to gaseous sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and their amalgamation on sea bass (Centropristis striata). Employing a comprehensive approach involving hematological, cytotoxic, and histochemical analyses, the research provides crucial insights into the potential adverse impacts of these pollutants on fish health. The examination specifically focuses on the effects of SO2+NO2 on hematological, histochemical, and serum biochemical parameters in Centropristis striata. Treatment groups, subjected to LC30, LC50, and LC90 acute exposure of gaseous SO2, NO2, and SO2+NO2, alongside a control group, underwent evaluation of parameters such as red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, total protein, albumin, serum creatinine, and blood urea. At the 96th hour, RBC values decreased, and WBC values increased in all experimental conditions compared to the control group (p>0.05). MCV and MCH increased with the concentration of gaseous pollutants and exposure time (p>0.05). Hematological parameter variations underscore disruptions in blood composition and immune responses. Simultaneously, alterations in serum biochemical parameters suggest potential impairments in liver and kidney functions, along with disturbances in lipid metabolism. Significant declines in albumin levels, indicating potential liver dysfunction or inflammation due to SO2 and NO2 exposures, were observed at all experimental conditions, while decreased globulin levels suggest immunosuppressive effects from combined pollutants. A substantial increase in the albumin/globulin ratio further signals an imbalance indicative of potential liver dysfunction or inflammation. Varied responses in liver enzyme levels (SGPT/ALT, SGOT/AST, ALP) underscore potential liver damage or injury (p< 0.05). These findings deepen our understanding of environmental impacts on aquatic ecosystems, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to ensure the health and sustainability of fish populations in polluted environments.