Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Parabens are recognized as emerging contaminants. Used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, they present significant ecological risks to aquatic ecosystems. This study evaluated the effects of two parabens—methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate (methylparaben) and propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate (propylparaben)—both individually and as a mixture on daphnids. Through a series of controlled exposure experiments, phenotypic endpoints, including mortality, feeding behaviour, and enzymatic activity, were measured. The results demonstrate that propyl paraben and the mixture of propyl and methyl paraben exhibit greater toxic potential compared to methyl paraben alone. We observed a dose-dependent impact on key enzymes, indicating significant metabolic disruption. These findings underscore the necessity of utilizing model systems to investigate the complex interactions and cumulative impacts of pollutant mixtures in aquatic environments. Furthermore, this study provides critical insights regarding the underlying toxicity mechanisms of parabens, highlighting the need for comprehensive water quality monitoring and risk assessment frameworks to address the challenges posed by emerging contaminants.
Source: Water
DOI: 10.3390/w16233409
Authors: Anne Leung, Emma Rowan, Flavia Melati Chiappara, Konstantinos Grintzalis
Institution: Dublin City University
Language: English
Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,955
Funder: Science Foundation Ireland
OpenAlex ID: W4404761076