Impact of silicon-based quantum dots on the antioxidative system in white muscle of Carassius auratus gibelio

Abstract

Silicon-based quantum dots were intraperitoneally injected in individuals of Carassius auratus gibelio. Their effects on white muscle were investigated by following their distribution and impact on the antioxidative system. The GSH level significantly increased after 1 and 3 days of exposure by, respectively, 85.3 and 25.4%. Seven days later, GSH levels were similar to control concentrations. MDA concentration rose after three days by 46.9% and remained at the same level after 7 days. Protein thiol levels significantly decreased by 6.7 and 8.1% after 3 and 7 days, whereas advanced oxidation protein products increased by 12.7, respectively, 28.1% in the same time intervals. The protein reactive carbonyl groups were raised only after the first day of exposure and returned to the control level later on. SOD specific activity increased up to 48% after 7 days, while CAT activity increased by 328, 176, and 26% after 1, 3, and 7 days of treatment. GST specific activity was up-regulated by 87, 18, and 9%, while GR activity increased by 68, 34, and 9%. G6PD activity was up-regulated by 12, 22, and 50%, whereas GPx activity raised by 75 and 109% compared to control after, respectively, 1, 3, and 7 days. Our results suggest that oxidative stress induced by silicon-based quantum dots was not strong enough to cause permanent damage in the white muscle of crucian carp.

Complex responses to Si quantum dots accumulation in carp liver tissue: Beyond oxidative stress

“…Our previous studies on gibel carp revealed the presence of QDs in the liver [42], kidney [43] and even white muscle tissue [44] as early as 24 h post ip. injection.…”

Structural and Oxidative Changes in the Kidney of Crucian Carp Induced by Silicon-Based Quantum Dots

“…The IP injected QDs were taken up by blood circulation of C. auratus gibelio and spread in tissues such as the white muscle [14] and kidney.…”

“…The problem of QD toxicity is controversial and might be overcome by using silicon-based QDs, which seem to have reduced toxicity [14,15]. …”

Sulphur-Containing Compounds as a Response in Sea Urchins Exposed to Alkylated Silicon Nanocrystals and SiO₂-Coated Iron Oxide Nanoparticles

“…The low levels of toxicity produced by SiNCs and their biodegradation are useful for clinical translation [20]. The impact of silicon-based quantum dots on the freshwater fish Carassius auratus gibelio [21][22][23] was also studied recently. The effects of the quantum dots on white muscle, their distribution and their impact on antioxidative stress (GSH) were reported [21].…”

“…The impact of silicon-based quantum dots on the freshwater fish Carassius auratus gibelio [21][22][23] was also studied recently. The effects of the quantum dots on white muscle, their distribution and their impact on antioxidative stress (GSH) were reported [21]. However, to the best of our knowledge there has been no study of the toxicity of silicon-based nanocrystals to other marine organisms.…”