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3A - Biomarker/Biomonitoring (TUP/160) Evaluation of metallothionein and acetylcholinesterase in Mytilus galloprovincialis for pollution assessment in the Saronikos Gulf. Tsangaris, Catherine1, Strogyloudi, Evangelia1, Papathanassiou, Evangelos1, 1 National Center for Marine Research, Hellinikon, Athens, Greece, Greece ABSTRACT- A number of biochemical parameter alterations in marine organisms represent specific markers of exposure to particular classes of contaminants. Two biochemical markers, metallothionein (MT) content and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity were evaluated in mussels Mytilus galloprovincialis from coastal areas subjected to high anthropogenic pressure in the Saronikos Gulf near Athens. Seasonal measurements of the two biomarkers for two years revealed no significant differences among mussels from stations representing a pollution gradient. Results showed low MT concentrations and high AChE activities implying low levels of pollutants that may affect these biomarkers, such as heavy metals or organophosphate and carbamate compounds. Low heavy metal levels measured in mussel tissues are in agreement with the biomarker measurements. However, a correlation occurred between the two biomarkers since during the second year of measurements a concomitant increase in MT content with a decrease in AChE activity was found. These preliminary results indicate that both biochemical markers do not reflect the type of pollution in the Saronikos Gulf to a degree that can be used for pollution monitoring in the greater area. Key words: mussel, biomarker, metallothionein, acetylcholinesterase |
