Evaluation of abamectin induced hepatotoxicity in Oreochromis mossambicus

Abstract Abamectin (ABM) is a naturally fermented product of Streptomyces avermitilis. It is used to control pests in livestock and agriculture. In the present study, it has been hypothesized that intoxication of ABM to Oreochromis mossambicus impairs the function of the hepatocyte. Fishes were exposed to ABM with 40, 45, and 55 ppb for 48 h. Test animals were observed at regular intervals of time and sacrificed at the end of the regimen. Liver function tests, oxidative stress parameter, and histopathological alterations were taken into account to analyze hepatotoxicity induced by the test compound. Plasma transaminase activities were increased significantly in all the treated groups. The activity of lipid peroxidation was measured higher due to ABM intoxication, whereas catalase activity was depleted. The marked focal necrotic alteration was examined in liver tissue. The low-dose group showed a less adverse effect on liver, whereas the medium and high dose induced moderate-to-severe hepatotoxicity. Data from this study demonstrate that ABM exposure generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) and alter liver function of fishes, which may lead to liver necrosis. The authors’ emphasis on the regulatory use of ABM to protect fish health against ABM-induced toxicological effects.