Integration of multi-level biomarker responses to cadmium and benzo[k]fluoranthene in the pale chub (Zacco platypus)

The Cd exposure for 14 days significantly increased both the molecular (DNA single-strand breaks) and biochemical (metallothionein concentrations) biomarkers in the freshwater pale chub, Zacco platypus, whereas changes in the histological and physiological biomarker responses were negligible. The B. kF exposure for 14 days led to significant increases in the mRNA expression of catalase and superoxide dismutase, 7-ethoxyresorufin-. O-deethylase enzymatic activity and DNA single-strand breakage at the molecular and biochemical levels. In addition, exposure to 50. μg/L of B. kF induced histological alteration in the liver, with significant changes to the liver somatic index and condition factor at the physiological level. The integration of multi-level biomarker responses at the molecular, biochemical and physiological levels was highly correlated with the concentrations of Cd and B. kF.