Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress and Histopathological Studies in Fish from Ibaka and Ifiayong Rivers, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Akpakpan, Ekam Ime and Akpanyung, Edet Okon and Anazodo, Ngozi Obiageli and Ekanemesang, Udoudo Moses (2014) Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress and Histopathological Studies in Fish from Ibaka and Ifiayong Rivers, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. World Applied Sciences Journal, 32 (7). pp. 1209-1218. ISSN 1818-4952

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Abstract

Ibaka and Ifiayong rivers are located in Akwa Ibom State, within the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. They serve as important sources of fish to the people in this locality. Ibaka River is subject to perturbations arising from oil exploration activities whereas Ifiayong River is free from oil exploration, but maybe susceptible to agricultural runoff and waste discharges. To evaluate the extent of heavy metal contamination of these Rivers and associated oxidative stress, the concentrations of copper, zinc, cadmium and lead were determined in the liver, kidney, heart and gills of silver catfish, Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus, from these sources. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were also determined. Isolated organs were examined for histopathological changes. Tissue levels of Cu and Zn were found to be high and significantly higher (p<0.05) in fish from Ibaka River than those from Ifiayong River. Low levels of Cd and Pb were detected in the organs of fish and the concentrations of these elements were significantly higher (p<0.05) in fish from Ibaka River. Activities of antioxidant enzymes and malondialdehyde levels were also significantly higher in fish from Ibaka River. Histopathological changes in fish organs were also more severe in fish from Ibaka River. These results indicate heavy metal contamination and oxidative stress in fish from these Rivers. However, there is need for a more comprehensive assessment of all possible pollutants in these rivers to better understand the extent of contamination and the development of strategies for intervention.

Item Type: Article
Subjects: Q Science > Q Science (General)
Divisions: Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences > School of Biological Sciences
Depositing User: Uchenna Eneogwe
Date Deposited: 22 Jun 2025 13:37
Last Modified: 22 Jun 2025 13:37
URI: http://eprints.gouni.edu.ng/id/eprint/4895

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