Lipidomics: An Emerging Tool in Aquatic Toxicology Research

Abstract

The continuous contamination of aquatic ecosystems due to a wide range of chemicals potentially threatens aquatic organisms’ physiological integrity. While the conventional ecotoxicological methods mainly focused on gene and protein level effects, shreds of evidence suggest that lipid homeostasis is more sensitive and critical to contaminant exposure. This review highlights the role of lipidomics in aquatic toxicology, addressing how contaminants—heavy metals, nanoparticles, plastics, flame retardants, and pesticides—alter lipid composition and metabolic pathways through the induction of oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS). By synthesizing the latest advancements, we underscore the utility of untargeted lipidomics, particularly ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-based techniques, in discovering early biomarkers of exposure and effect. Furthermore, we explore the potential of integrating lipidomics with transcriptomics and proteomics to construct a comprehensive mechanistic framework for contaminant-induced toxicity. This appraisal not only consolidates current knowledge but also identifies critical gaps, advocating for developing lipid-based biomarkers to strengthen environmental monitoring and risk assessment strategies. Our findings align with the broader goal of conserving aquatic biodiversity and enhancing the resilience of ecosystems against escalating chemical stressors.