Work

Neurotoxic Effects of Acute Tributyltin Exposure in Adult Zebrafish: Behavioral Impairments and Mechanistic Insights

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Tributyltin (TBT) remains a persistent aquatic contaminant with documented neurotoxic effects, yet the underlying mechanisms of its neurotoxicity remain poorly understood. METHODS: ) through an integrated approach combining histopathological examination, metabolomics analysis, transcriptional profiling, and behavioral assays. RESULTS: Histopathological analysis revealed significant TBT-induced damage to brain tissue architecture. Metabolomic profiling demonstrated that TBT exposure (500 ng/L) severely disrupted cellular energy metabolism, particularly the TCA cycle and purine/pyrimidine metabolism, while exhibiting hormetic responses at lower concentrations. Transcriptional analysis identified widespread downregulation of SNARE complex proteins and neurotransmitter transporters, indicating comprehensive deterioration of synaptic machinery. CONCLUSIONS: These molecular perturbations corresponded with systematic disruption of antioxidant defense mechanisms and neurotransmitter signaling pathways, establishing a direct mechanistic link to observed behavioral deficits. Our findings reveal a hierarchical cascade of molecular disruptions triggered by TBT exposure, bridging the critical gap between metabolic dysregulation and synaptic dysfunction. This mechanistic framework provides fundamental insights into the neurotoxicological impact of this widespread environmental contaminant, highlighting potential therapeutic targets for intervention.

Source: Metabolites

DOI: 10.3390/metabo16020105