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(41-19) Relations between metals (Zn, Pb, Cd and Cu) and glutathione-dependent detoxifying processes in spiders from a heavy metal pollution gradient. Wilczek, Grazyna*,1, Babczynska, Agnieszka1, Augustyniak, Maria1, Migula, Pawel1, 1 University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland ABSTRACT- Our previous studies demonstrated that in spiders detoxifying abilities depend on their life strategies. Here we studied what are the relations between glutathione-dependent detoxifying abilities and heavy metal burdens of web- and wandering spiders living in areas along a heavy metals pollution gradient. Selected spider species of both sexes: wandering Pardosa lugubris (Lycosidae) and web Agelena labyrinthica (Agelenidae) differ behaviourally and physiologically. Profiles of glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidases (GPOX) and the glutathione level were analysed. Zn, Pb, Cd and Cu contents in spiders (measured with the AAS) were positively correlated with GPOX activity and glutathione levels in both species. Generally, activity of both parameters were higher in Agelena, indicating its better tolerance to oxidative stressors. In contrast, relations between GST activity and metal levels were quite opposite - negative correlations were revealed here. This means that conjugation reactions were more effective in spiders from less polluted areas. Thus metals might have a negative effect on the II phase detoxifying enzymes but a positive one in antioxidative metabolism. There were also sex-related differences in strategies used against pollutants in both spider species. In females energetic cost of detoxification seem to be higher, suppose more efficient in defence against excess of metals. They had higher than in males glutathione and GST activity levels, concomitant with three times lower metal burdens of their bodies. Generally, wandering spiders are able to tolerate higher amounts of heavy metals, maintaining, at the same time, lower levels of detoxifying enzymes and glutathione level. Despite differences in adaptive detoxifying strategies, both analysed species seem to be successful enough for living in industrially affected environments. Key words: spiders, heavy metals, glutathione, detoxifying enzymes |
