Toxic Effects of Zinc Cyanide on Some Protein Metabolites in Fresh water fish, Cirrhinus mrigala (Hamilton)

Abstract

<p>Effect of zinc cyanide on protein and certain metabolites content and some enzymes activities<br />was evaluated in liver, muscle and gill tissues of the freshwater fish, Cirrhinus mrigala, during exposure and<br />following cessation of exposure. Fish exhibited significant alterations in the biochemical parameters in all<br />tissues studied. Levels of total protein decreased in all tissues, where as free amino acids (FAA) and protease<br />activities significantly increased (P<0.05). Similarly decrease was observed in the ammonia level with increased<br />urea and glutamine levels at all exposure periods. The enzymes involved in the protein metabolism altered<br />under the zinc cyanide intoxication. Increase in the protease and aminotransferases revealed amplified<br />transamination processes. Significant increase of phosphatases indicated increased rate of phosphorylation<br />and transport of molecules across the cell membrane. Withdrawal study also exhibited significant recovery in<br />all above biochemical parameters, in all tissue after the 7th day post recovery treatment. Present study<br />exhibited negative effects of zinc cyanide on protein metabolism. Fish with low protein content were not fit<br />for human consumption. Patterns of effects on intermediary metabolism suggest avenues to determine the<br />mechanisms by which such effects occur.</p>