In Vivo and In Silico Determination of Toxicological Effects of Midazolam on Galleria mellonella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) as a Model Organism.

Abstract

The widespread presence of pharmaceutical compounds in the environment raises increasing concerns about their ecological impacts, particularly on non-target organisms. This study investigates the biochemical and physiological effects of midazolam, a clinically used benzodiazepine, on Galleria mellonella larvae as a model organism. In this study, the effects of dietary midazolam on metabolic enzyme activity, biochemical parameters and antioxidant levels in G.mellonella were determined. Results indicated significant alterations in enzyme levels, including increased levels of aspartate transferase, alanine transferase, and lactate dehydrogenase, suggesting cellular damage. In addition, the levels of energy metabolism regulators such as creatine kinase, alkaline phosphatase and amylase changed due to the oxidative effect of midazolam. Additionally, antioxidant levels, including albumin, uric acid and bilirubin were altered, indicating a response to oxidative stress. Molecular docking studies revealed a strong interaction between midazolam with juvenile hormone and 20-hydroxyecdysone hormone binding proteins, suggesting potential disruption of the endocrine system. These findings contribute to understanding the potential ecological risks posed by environmental contamination with neuroactive pharmaceuticals like midazolam.