Effects of PBDE-47 on Thyroid Hormones in Fish
Author Information
Author(s): Sean C. Lema, Jon T. Dickey, Irvin R. Schultz, Penny Swanson
Primary Institution: Northwest Fisheries Science Center, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Hypothesis
Does dietary exposure to PBDE-47 affect thyroid hormone levels and gene expression in fish?
Conclusion
Dietary exposure to PBDE-47 alters thyroid hormone signaling and gene expression in the pituitary and brain of fathead minnows.
Supporting Evidence
- PBDE-47 exposure reduced plasma T4 levels in both male and female minnows.
- Elevated TSHβ mRNA levels were observed at the low PBDE-47 dose.
- Brain TRα mRNA levels increased in females exposed to the high PBDE-47 dose.
- Brain TRβ mRNA levels decreased in both sexes after PBDE-47 exposure.
- BTEB transcript levels were reduced in males exposed to PBDE-47.
Takeaway
Fish that eat a chemical called PBDE-47 have lower levels of a hormone that helps them grow and develop, which might affect their health.
Methodology
Adult fathead minnows were fed PBDE-47 at two doses for 21 days, and plasma thyroid hormone levels and gene transcripts were measured.
Limitations
The study focused on a specific species and may not generalize to all fish or other animals.
Participant Demographics
Adult fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas)
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.002
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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