Review of Copper and Copper Nanoparticle Toxicity in Fish

Abstract

This review summarizes the present knowledge on the toxicity of copper and copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) to various fish species. In previous decades, the excessive usage of metal and metallic nanoparticles has increased significantly, increasing the probability of the accumulation and discharge of metals in various trophic levels of the environment. Due to these concerns, it is important to understand the toxicity mechanisms of metals and metallic nanoparticles before they lead to unhealthy effects on human health. In this review paper, we specifically focus on the effect of metal copper and CuNPs on different fish organs under different physiochemical parameters of various water bodies. Nowadays, different forms of copper have distinctive and specific usages, e.g., copper sulfate is a well-established pesticide which is used to control the growth of algae in lakes and ponds. Deactivating the fungi enzymes prevents fungal spores from germinating. This process of deactivation is achieved via the free cupric ions, which are established as the most toxic forms of copper. Complexes of copper with other ligands may or may not be bioavailable for use in aquatic organisms. On the other hand, CuNPs have shown cost-effectiveness and numerous promising uses, but the toxicity and availability of copper in a nanoparticle form is largely unknown, Additionally, physiochemical factors such as the hardness of the water, alkalinity, presence of inorganic and organic ligands, levels of pH, and temperature in various different water bodies affect the toxicity caused by copper and CuNPs. However, comprehensive knowledge and data regarding the pattern of toxicity for copper metal ions and CuNPs in marine organisms is still limited. In this review, we carry out a critical analysis of the availability of the toxicological profiles of copper metal ions and CuNPs for different fishes in order to understand the toxicity mechanisms of copper and CuNPs. We believe that this review will provide valuable information on the toxicological profile of copper, which will further help in devising safe guidelines for the usage of copper and CuNPs in a sustainable manner.

Chemically and Green Synthesized ZnO Nanoparticles Alter Key Immunological Molecules in Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) Skin Mucus

“…Metal oxide nanoparticles, as a very important class of NPs, are highly persistent in the environment and food chain [ 7 ] making them very dangerous for the environment and aquatic organisms. Engineered metal and metal-oxide NPs are known to impose a wide range of harmful implications (e.g., inducing oxidative stress, DNA damage, mutations, decreasing cell viability, stimulation of apoptosis and necrosis) on living organisms [ 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 ]. Besides, NPs can interact with immune compartments resulting in immunosuppression [ 12 , 13 ].…”

Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Alter Serum Biochemical Indices, Induce Histopathological Alterations, and Modulate Transcription of Cytokines, HSP70, and Oxidative Stress Genes in Oreochromis niloticus

“…The widespread use of MONMs may end up in the aquatic environment causing serious concern and hazardous effects on the exposed aquatic biota, including fish and bivalve mollusks [ 13 , 14 , 15 ]. In this concern, Malhotra et al [ 16 ] reviewed the nanotoxicological investigations of CuONPs in various fish species, including their bioavailability, bioaccumulation, mechanisms of action, and health effects on the exposed fish. Previous studies showed that the toxicological effects of CuONPs in fish are generally affected by the particle size and the application method [ 17 ] and the agglomeration, dissolution, and concentration of nanoparticles in the exposure media [ 18 ].…”

A Simple and Cost-Effective Method for Producing Stable Surfactant-Coated EGaIn Liquid Metal Nanodroplets

“…Liquid metals have attracted much attention due to their good fluidity, low viscosity, and excellent electrical and thermal conductivity [ 2 , 3 ]. In addition, gallium-based liquid metals have unparalleled advantages in bioengineering, drug delivery, and tumor treatment because of their low toxicity and surface modification [ 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 ]. For example, Gu et al utilized eutectic gallium indium (EGaIn) and thiolated polymers to form core–shell nanospheres, which were loaded with doxorubicin or hyaluronic acid for drug delivery and tumor treatment [ 9 ].…”