Commonly Used Food Preservative and Antioxidant BHT Alter the Expression of Gene in Steroidogenic Pathway and Affect Gonadal Architecture

Author: Biny, N.B., Binitha, R.N. and Paul Thomas

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Abstract

Terrestrial and aquatic life is being influenced by the exposure with various manmade chemicals. BHT is a common antioxidant used in food preservation, cosmetics, and industry. European federation of Endocrine disruption categories BHT as Number 1 priority substance causing endocrine disruption. Studies till date mainly focuses on the allergic, antioxidant, and carcinogenic properties of BHT. It has been recommended by the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) to study the reproductive properties of the compound to ensure its safety as a food additive. In present study we have analysed the estrogenic/anti-estrogenic or androgenic effect of BHT using FSTRA assay (tier 1 screening assay used for identifying Endocrine Disruptions). Two test doses (T1- 15 mg/Kg.bwt and T2- 30 mg/Kg.bwt) of BHT were administered in fish twice a week. Aromatase gene expression was studied by RT PCR and Quantified the expression of gene in the gonad. We found an up regulation of aromatase gene. Aromatase gene is involved in the synthesis of aromatase enzyme which convert androgen in to estrogen. Histopathological observation of the testis and ovary of the treated fish compare to the control fish, the following pathological feature decreased number of mature sperms (MS), primordial germ cells (PGC), and increased number of impaired germ cells (IGC). General atrophy (GA) or testicular atrophy (TA), interstitial fibrosis (IFB), and Leydig cell hyperplasia (LCH) with vacant spaces in the seminiferous tubules (ST). Histopathology of ovary degeneration of vitellogenic oocyte (DVO), primary oocyte (PO), secondary oocyte (SO) and mature oocytes (MO) (A). Degeneration of vitellogenic oocyte or degeneration of oocyte (DVO or DO).

Keywords

BHT, Aromatase gene, FSTRA assay, RTPCR, Histopathological study

Conclusion

The gonadal effect of antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) in Anabas testudineus was investigated for short-term (14 days) and long-term periods (28 days). The examination was based on the histopathological observations of the tissues. Pathological significance was noted in the testis and was devoid in the ovary. The results obtained from this study provide a preliminary data for further evaluation of the effects of BHT on gonads. Long-term monitoring and continuous assessment in different animal models are imperative to obtain further insights into the properties of BHT and its effect on gonads. Aromatase gene expression study by RT PCR gives the information that the compound BHT effect the steroidogenic pathway.

References

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How to cite this article

Biny, N.B., Binitha, R.N. and Paul Thomas (2023). Commonly Used Food Preservative and Antioxidant BHT Alter the Expression of Gene in Steroidogenic Pathway and Affect Gonadal Architecture. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 822-828.