Functional significance and physiological regulation of essential trace metals in fish

Abstract

Trace metals such as iron, copper, zinc and manganese play essential roles in various biological processes in fish, including development, energy metabolism and immune response. At embryonic stages, fish obtain essential metals primarily from the yolk, whereas in later life stages (i.e. juvenile and adult), the gastrointestine and the gill are the major sites for the acquisition of trace metals. On a molecular level, the absorption of metals is thought to occur at least in part via specific metal ion transporters, including the divalent metal transporter-1 (DMT1), copper transporter-1 (CTR1), and Zrt- and Irt-like proteins (ZIP). A variety of other proteins are also involved in maintaining cellular and systemic metal homeostasis. Interestingly, the expression and function of these metal transport- and metabolism-related proteins can be influenced by a range of trace metals and major ions. Increasing evidence also demonstrates an interplay between the gastrointestine and the gill for the regulation of trace metal absorption. Therefore, there is a complex network of regulatory and compensatory mechanisms involved in maintaining trace metal balance. Yet, an array of factors is known to influence metal metabolism in fish, such as hormonal status and environmental changes. In this Review, we summarize the physiological significance of iron, copper, zinc and manganese, and discuss the current state of knowledge on the mechanisms underlying transepithelial metal ion transport, metal–metal interactions, and cellular and systemic handling of these metals in fish. Finally, we identify knowledge gaps in the regulation of metal homeostasis and discuss potential future research directions.

Metals and Metalloid Concentrations in Fish, Its Spatial Distribution in PPC, Philippines and the Attributable Risks

“…The results of the correlation analysis also revealed that some positive relationships exist between MMs in both brackish water and marine fish, indicating changes in the same direction (i.e., when a MM increases, other MMs also increase) [ 100 ]. Similarly, this may also reveal common absorption sites of MMs in both brackish and marine fish, their interaction, and possible source(s) of pollution [ 34 , 101 ]. Ali et al (2022) [ 102 ], also investigated toxic metals in commercial fishes from Bangladesh and found highly positive relationships between toxic metals, suggesting common sources and distribution patterns.…”

Effect of Iron Nanoparticles on the Intestinal Bacterial Flora and Histology of the Intestine and Kidney in Stellate Sturgeon (Acipenser stellatus Pallas, 1771)

“…Iron (Fe) has important roles in physiological processes such as oxygen transport, cellular respiration, and lipid oxidation reactions and is necessary for the normal function of the organs and tissues of fish (Chandrapalan and Kwong, 2021). Adding Fe-NPs to young carp and sturgeons' diets increased their growth rate to 30% and 24%, respectively (Rather et al, 2011).…”

Illicit Drugs in Surface Waters: How to Get Fish off the Addictive Hook

“…Furthermore, the role of cytochrome P450 enzymes in the catalyzation of COC N-demethylation in fish liver has been investigated, shedding light on the metabolic pathways of COC in fish [ 149 ]. Additionally, lead and other trace elements have been shown to negatively affect endocrine function in fish, further emphasizing the potential for environmental contaminants to modulate the endocrine system in aquatic species [ 150 ].…”