Vanillic acid as a protective agent against bisphenol a: Effects on developmental, biochemical, and molecular parameters in Drosophila melanogaster

The progression of industry and technology has exacerbated environmental pollution, prompting concerns regarding its detrimental effects on biological health. Bisphenol A (BPA), a prevalent toxic endocrine disruptor, is widely disseminated into the environment via industrial practices, impacting a vast spectrum of organisms from bacteria to eukaryotes. Vanillic acid (VA), a phenolic compound with a broad application in cosmetics, flavoring agents, and polymer industries, is notable for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, although its biological effects remain underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of VA against BPA-induced oxidative stress in the model organism Drosophila melanogaster through various biological and molecular parameters. In this research, D. melanogaster was exposed to BPA (25 mM) both independently and in conjunction with VA at different concentrations (0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg/L). BPA exposure led to increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation (LPO), along with reduced antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, GSH). Additionally, significant DNA damage was observed via the Comet assay, along with upregulated expression of immune and cellular stress-related genes (SOD, CAT, gclc, and hsp70) and detoxification-related genes (Keap1 and CncC=Nrf2). Developmental parameters, including larval toxicity, larval crawling and climbing behaviors, survival rate, food intake, and changes in body weight and length, also demonstrated adverse effects. The application of VA at varying doses resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in LPO, enhancement of antioxidant enzyme activities, and an improvement in DNA integrity, while ameliorating the developmental impacts on larvae. This study suggests that VA may mitigate the harmful effects of BPA, offering potential as a natural protective agent against industrial toxins. These findings are relevant for both environmental and public health, underscoring the role of natural compounds in counteracting the impact of pervasive environmental toxins.