Integrated biomarker responses as environmental status descriptors of a coastal zone (Sao Paulo, Brazil)

Sao Paulo state (Brazil) has one of the most overpopulated coastal zones in South America, where previous studies have already detected sediment and water contamination. However, biological-based monitoring considering signals of xenobiotic exposure and effects are scarce. The present study employed a battery of biomarkers under field conditions to assess the environmental quality of this coastal zone. For this purpose, the activity of CYP 450, antioxidant enzymes, DNA damage, lipid peroxidation and lysosomal membrane were analysed in caged mussels and integrated using Factorial Analysis. A representation of estimated factor scores was performed in order to confirm the factor descriptions characterizing the studied areas. Biomarker responses indicated signals of mussels` impaired health during the monitoring, which pointed to the impact of different sources of contaminants in the water quality and identified critical areas. This integrated approach produced a rapid, sensitive and cost-effective assessment, which could be incorporated as a descriptor of environmental status in future coastal zones biomonitoring. (C) 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

CAPES Comissao de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nivel Superior (Brazil)[099/06]

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)

CAPES Comissao de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nivel Superior (Brazil)[BEX 3238/06-7]

CAPES Comissao de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nivel Superior (Brazil)[BEX 3239/06-3]

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES)

CAPES Comissao de Aperfeicoamento de Pessoal de Nivel Superior (Brazil)[BEX2492/08-03]

Ministerio de Educacion y Ciencia/Direccion General de Universidades (Spain)

Ministerio de Educacion y Ciencia/Direccion General de Universidades (Spain)[BEX2300108-7/MEC-Spain PHB 2005-0100-PC]