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(T/EH047) Ultrastructural effects of 2,4-dichloroaniline on the skin of in vivo exposed rainbow trout. Lyng, Fiona 1, Lyons Alcantara, Maria2, Kilemade, Michael1, Cottell, David 3, Rose, Tina4, Fitzgerald, Richard4, Mothersill, Carmel1, 1 2 3 4 ABSTRACT- 2,4-dichloroaniline (2,4-DCA) is a widespread environmental pollutant, found mainly in waste water from pharmaceutical and agrochemical production plants. Exposure to 2,4-DCA results in induction of methaemoglobinaemia, haemolysis, cancer and genotoxicity. This study investigated the effect of 2,4-DCA on the morphology of in vivo exposed rainbow trout skin. Rainbow trout were exposed in tanks to 2 microM and 10 microM 2,4-DCA for 6 day and 13 day periods. Dechlorinated water and DMSO controls were also included. Skin from control and exposed fish was removed, fixed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde and processed for electron microscopy. Ultrathin sections were cut, stained and examined by transmission electron microscopy. There was a significant increase in the numbers of mucous cells in the exposed skin at both concentrations compared to the controls. In addition, the skin displayed pronounced morphological damage following exposure to 2,4-DCA, with more damage evident at the higher concentration. Cellular abnormalities included damage to nuclei and cytoplasmic organelles, particularly mitochondria, and severe disruption of the cytoskeleton. Key words: toxicology, 2,4-dichloroaniline, rainbow trout, ultrastructure |
