Effects of bisphenol A and S, on oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, and fatty acid composition in sea cucumber, Holothuria poli.

Abstract

Bisphenols, recognized as emerging environmental pollutants, are widely detected in marine ecosystems, raising concerns about their potential toxicity to marine organisms. This study investigates the effects of bisphenol A (BPA) and bisphenol S (BPS), individually and in combination, on the biochemical responses of the sea cucumber Holothuria poli. Sea cucumbers (n = 60) were exposed to 200 µg/L BPA, BPS, or a combination of both for 12 days. The results indicated that exposure to BPA and BPS induced oxidative stress, evidenced by increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (p < 0.05) and elevated activities of glutathione S-transferase (GST) and catalase, along with enhanced glutathione levels (p < 0.05). A significant rise in acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity (p < 0.05) suggested potential neurotoxic effects and disruptions in neurological functions in sea cucumbers. Additionally, BPA and BPA + BPS significantly increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity (p < 0.05), indicating altered phosphatase metabolism. Changes in the fatty acid profile, including variations in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), palmitic acid, myristic acid, palmitoleic acid, and linolenic acid levels, were observed, linked to oxidative stress and adaptive strategies to mitigate bisphenol toxicity. In conclusion, exposure to BPA and BPS induced oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, and altered fatty acid composition in H. poli. These findings suggest that sea cucumbers could serve as sensitive bioindicators for monitoring environmental contamination.