Serum Hormone Profiles in freshwater Catfish Clarias batrachus Exposed to Lambda-Cyhalothrin

Abstract

Hormone control in aquatic creatures is disrupted by synthetic pesticides, particularly endocrine disruptors like pyrethroids. These substances interfere with cellular uptake by attaching to the receptors of hormones or plasma transport proteins, imitating or blocking hormones. Fish thyroid hormones, which are essential for metabolic rate and stress-induced glucose mobilization, are especially impacted. Organophosphates and organochlorides hinder reproduction by inhibiting pituitary gonadotropin release and gonadal development. Pyrethroids, like lambda-cyhalothrin, are known to change the structure of the gonads and hormone-related processes. The purpose of this study is to better understand how Lambda-cyhalothrin affects freshwater catfish Clarias batrachus's serum hormone levels and how it contributes to endocrine disruption and reproductive dysfunction. The results could help address more general ecological concerns about pesticide pollution in aquatic ecosystems by exposing hormonal abnormalities and gonad structural alterations. Serum hormone levels were assayed using standard biochemical methods. Using radioimmunoassay, plasma triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) were evaluated. Serum hormone levels in Clarias batrachus significantly decreased overall (P < 0.01) after exposure to sub-lethal amounts of lambda-cyhalothrin. Following exposure to the sub-lethal quantities of the pyrethroid, both groups exhibited an overall significant (P < 0.01) fluctuation in the blood cortisol levels, with T4 and estrogen (E2) levels dropping noticeably (P < 0.05). Progesterone levels were declined by 73.51% and 63.50% after 45 days in higher and lower exposure groups, respectively. These hormonal disruptions indicate endocrine interference by the pyrethroid.