Glyphosate combined with TBBPA exposure decreased quality and flavor of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) involved inhibiting muscle growth and collagen synthesis

Abstract

Glyphosate (N-[phosphonomethyl] glycine, GLY) is the active ingredient of the most widely used commercialized herbicide, and its use increases the potential for co-occurrence with flame retardants such as Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), posing a threat to aquatic systems and food safety. Therefore, it is important to prioritize evaluating these two compounds' combined toxicity. However, only a few studies have analyzed the effects of pollutant mixing on fish from the perspectives of molecular and nutritional components. In this study, the impact of TBBPA and GLY on muscle development and flesh quality was investigated by exposing common carp to water-borne TBBPA and/or GLY for 30 days. The results showed that TBBPA and GLY exposure decreased the anti-oxidant capacity and content of most free amino acids in common carp muscle. Textural analysis suggested that the meat flesh's hardness, cohesiveness, and chewiness were decreased under TBBPA and GLY exposure. In addition, the decreased cross-sectional area of muscle fibers and collagen deposition were observed in the carp muscle exposed to TBBPA and/or GLY. Further analysis of related genes indicated the co-exposure of TBBPA and GLY significantly upregulated the levels of FoxO1 and MuRF-1, and decreased the levels of MyoD1, Collagen I, α-SMA, and TGF-β. Collectively, our results illustrated that exposure to TBBPA and GLY could inhibit muscle growth and decrease nutritional value in common carp.