Effects of malathion on oxidative stress mediated endocrine disruption in Oreochromis niloticus

In this study, Oreochromis niloticus was exposed to malathion, an organophosphorus insecticide, for 1, 15, 30 days. 0.1 ppm, 0.5 ppm and 1 ppm were chosen as experimental concentrations based on 96 hour LC50 concentration of malathion. Then fish were returned to pesicide free water to determine the potential reversibility of biochemical indicators. Acetylcholinesterase spesific activity was evaluate as a biomarker of malathion toxicity, glutathione and malondialdehyde levels were evaluated to determine oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation by using spectrofotometric methods. Cortisol, estradiol and testosterone levels were measured to determine the endocrine disruption effects of malathion by using electrochemileminesans methods.The activity of acetylcholinesterase and the levels of glutathione decreased at malathion exposures. Fluctuations were observed at malondialdehyde and estradiol levels. Cortisol and testosterone levels increased.The results indicated that the malathion caused to neurotoxicity and oxidative stress-mediated endocrine disruption effect in O. niloticus.