Randomized trial examines effects of micro-plastics on growth, oxidative stress, and DNA damage in fish, suggesting significant health risks.
Key Points
The study aims to evaluate the impact of polyvinyl chloride and polystyrene micro-plastics on the health and growth of Ctenopharyngodon idella.
90-day dietary exposure of Ctenopharyngodon idella to PVC and PS micro-plastics.
Assessment of growth performance, digestive enzymes, oxidative stress biomarkers, and DNA damage pre- and post-exposure.
Statistical comparison of tissue-specific enzyme activity and genotoxic effects.
Weight gain was significantly lower in 30% PVC (6.95 ± 2.69 g) and 30% PS (2.91 ± 3.28 g) groups compared to controls (18.8 ± 5.86 g and 16.07 ± 5.32 g, respectively) (p < 0.05).
Catalase activity was significantly reduced in exposed fish compared to controls (p < 0.05).
Increased micronuclei frequency in the erythrocytes indicates a concentration-dependent genotoxic effect from micro-plastics.