Proteomic responses to acute sesamolin exposure in zebrafish embryos

Abstract

Sesamolin, a lignan with known pharmacological benefits, has been extensively studied for its neuroprotective, antioxidative, and anticancer properties. This study builds upon previous investigations into the acute toxicity of sesamolin, presenting a detailed examination of its effects on zebrafish embryonic development through a proteomic approach. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to 25 and 50 μM concentrations of sesamolin for 72 h, resulting in significant developmental abnormalities, including yolk sac edema, spinal curvature, blood clots, and defects in erythropoiesis. Proteomic analysis revealed a dose-dependent downregulation of 162 proteins, including vital clusters such as vitellogenins, ribosomal proteins, cytoskeletal proteins, heat shock proteins, hemoglobin proteins, and ATP synthase. These alterations are linked to disrupted protein synthesis, impaired structural integrity, energy production deficits, and abnormal embryonic nutrient utilization. The study suggests that sesamolin exerts its toxic effects by interfering with key molecular mechanisms essential for normal embryogenesis, specifically affecting protein expression involved in development, cell structure, and metabolic processes. These findings provide novel insights into the potential adverse effects of sesamolin on embryonic development and highlight the need for further research to elucidate the underlying molecular pathways and assess the compound's broader toxicological risks, particularly in relation to human health.