Gonad pathology, sex hormone modulation and vitellogenin expression in Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus from Lagos and Epe lagoons within the southern-lagoon system, Nigeria

• DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2024.1336916
• Publication Date: 2024-02-06T17:53:50Z
• Authors: Olusola A. Akangbe; Azubuike V. Chukwuka; Maurice E. Imiuwa; Aina O. Adeogun
• Keywords: Vitellogenin; Xenoestrogen; Endocrine disruptor

Introduction: Estrogenic chemicals in aquatic environments impact fish reproductive health, with vitellogenin protein levels serving as a crucial biomarker for xenoestrogen exposure. Limited knowledge exists on estrogenic effects tropical environments, prompting an investigation into the influence of environmental estrogens Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus Lagos and Epe lagoons. Methods: A total 195 samples underwent analysis protein, sex hormones (testosterone 17 β-estradiol), gonad pathology effluent-receiving areas specified Results: Gonadal alterations were observed male female fish, including empty seminiferous tubules distorted ovaries. Intersex occurred 3.81% 3.33% Epe. Testosterone generally higher females males from both lagoons, while E2 showing than Vtg but showed no significant difference samples. Discussion: Contaminant revealed similar trends metals (Hg, As, Cr) phthalates (DEHP, DBP, DEP) sexes population. Multivariate depictions PCA sex-specific patterns metal uptake (Cd) fishes at Lagoon. The positive association between pH loadings DBP sediment lagoon suggests alkalinity lower bioavailability contaminants. Conclusion: Endocrine disrupting lagoons populations, notable differences hormone contaminant concentrations two systems. Identification specific contaminants their spatial temporal can inform targeted management remediation efforts to protect restore these valuable ecosystems.