Potential Protective Effects of Spirulina (Spirulina platensis) against In Vitro Toxicity Induced by Heavy Metals (Cadmium, Mercury, and Lead) on SH-SY5Y Neuroblastoma Cells.

Spirulina, a filamentous microalga, is used all over the world as a nutraceutical dietary supplement. Recent studies have focused on examining its chelating activity and antioxidant properties, especially as a candidate for protection against neurotoxicity caused by heavy metals. The MTT test and LDH assay were used to examine the viability of the SH-SY5Y cells for 24, 48, and 72 h, to Cd, Hg, and Pb, individually or in combination with Spirulina, and the effects of necrotic cell death. In comparison to the control group, the viability of SH-SY5Y cells decreased after 24 h of exposure, with Cd being more toxic than Hg and Pb being less lethal. The effects of heavy metal toxicity on cell survival were ranked in order after 72 h under identical experimental circumstances as follows: Hg, Pb, and Cd. The viability of the cells was then tested after being exposed to Spirulina at doses of 5 at 50 (%v/v) for 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively. SH-SY5Y cells that had been treated with mixtures of heavy metals and Spirulina underwent the same assay. Cell viability is considerably increased by using Spirulina treatments at the prescribed periods and doses. Instead, the same procedure, when applied to SH-SY5Y cells, caused the release of LDH, which is consistent with the reduction in cell viability. We demonstrated for the first time, considering all the available data, that Spirulina 5, 25, and 50 (%v/v) enhanced the number of viable SH-SY5Y cells utilized as a model system for brain cells. Overall, the data from the present study provide a first insight into the promising positive role of Spirulina against the potentially toxic effects of metals.

Residual Levels of Mercury, Cadmium, Lead and Arsenic in Some Commercially Key Species from Italian Coasts (Adriatic Sea): Focus on Human Health.

This study provides information on the potential human health risk of Hg, Cd, Pb and As exposure from consumption of two fish species (Umbrina cirrosa and Sciaena umbra) in the general population and in high-level fish consumers. The concentrations did not show significant differences between the two species, and no fish length element level-body-length relationship was observed, except for Hg. The average metal(loid) levels, irrespective of species, varied in the following ranges: Hg = 0.18-0.19, Cd = 0.07-0.10, Pb = 0.10-0.12, As = 0.59-0.69 µg g-1 w.w. The concentrations remained below the maximum permissible limits (MPLs) for human consumption, except for Cd. The estimated intakes of Hg, Cd and Pb in both consumption scenarios were lower than the respective PTWI/PTMIs, as well as those of inorganic As, which were even lower than the BMDL01. The non-carcinogenic risk (THQ) did not reveal any concerns, except for Hg. The lifetime health cancer risk (ILCR) suggested hazard exclusively from Cd, although for high-level fish consumers, even the ILCR of inorganic As was, in some cases, above the acceptable range. Continuous monitoring of metal(loid) levels in these fish is strongly recommended because the results demonstrate the occurrence of potential health risks, especially in high-level fish consumers, due to the presence of Hg and Cd.

Determination of Mercury, Methylmercury and Selenium Concentrations in Elasmobranch Meat: Fish Consumption Safety.

This study measures total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg) and selenium (Se) concentrations in elasmobranch fish from an Italian market with the aim of evaluating the risk-benefit associated with their consumption, using estimated weekly intake (EWI), permissible safety level (MeHgPSL), selenium health benefit value (HBVSe) and monthly consumption rate limit (CRmm) for each species. THg and Se were analysed by atomic absorption spectrometry, while MeHg was determined by HrGc/Ms. THg and MeHg concentrations ranged from 0.61 to 1.25 µg g-1 w.w. and from 0.57 to 0.97 µg g-1 w.w., respectively, whereas Se levels were 0.49-0.65 µg g-1 w.w. In most samples European Community limits for THg were surpassed, while for MeHg none of the fish had levels above the limit adopted by FAO/WHO. EWIs for THg and MeHg in many cases were above the provisional tolerable weekly intakes (PTWIs). MeHgPSL estimate showed that fish should contain approximately 50% of the concentration measured to avoid exceeding the PTWI. Nevertheless, the HBVSe index indicated that solely skates were safe for human consumption (HBVSe = 3.57-6.22). Our results highlight the importance of a constant monitoring of THg and MeHg level in fish, especially in apex predators, to avoid the risk of overexposure for consumers.

Levels of Mercury, Methylmercury and Selenium in Fish: Insights into Children Food Safety.

Total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg), and selenium (Se) concentrations were measured in various commercially important fish species. The benefit-risk binomial associated with these chemicals was assessed in children through the probability of exceeding the provisional tolerable weekly intakes (PTWIs) of the contaminants and the Se recommended dietary allowance (RDA). The Se:Hg molar ratios, selenium health benefit values (HBVSe), and monthly consumption rate limits (CRmm) for each species were also calculated. THg and Se were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometer (Shimadzu, Milan, Italy), while MeHg was determined by Trace Ultra gas chromatograph connected with a PolarisQ MS (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Waltham, MA, USA). None of the analyzed fish had Hg levels above the European Community regulatory limits, while most large predators had MeHg levels over the threshold concentration set by US EPA. The estimated weekly intakes of THg and MeHg exceeded in many cases the PTWIs and the Se estimated daily intakes were provided from 0.71% to 2.75% of the RDA. Se:Hg molar ratios above 1 and positive HBVSe index suggested that Se in fish could be enough to alleviate the potential toxic effect of Hg. However, high-risk groups as children should consume fish in moderation because a large consumption pattern, especially of swordfish and tunas, might be of concern for health.

Trace Metals in Pork Meat Products Marketed in Italy: Occurrence and Health Risk Characterization.

This study provides valuable information on the levels of various trace metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, Zn, Cu, Cr) in meat products (baked ham, raw ham, mortadella, cured sausage, würstel, salami) from South Italy and calculates potential health risk toxicity associated with their consumption for the total population and for children. In the samples studied metal concentrations are within the permissible legal limits (Cd: 0.01-0.03 µg g-1 w.w., Hg: 0.01-0.02 µg g-1 w.w., Zn: 5.71-7.32 µg g-1 w.w., Cu: 1.08-1.21 µg g-1 w.w., Cr: 0.15-0.23 µg g-1 w.w.), except for Pb (Pb: 0.22-0.38 µg g-1 w.w.). The estimated intake values are within the provisional tolerable daily intake limits for toxic metals and recommended daily intake values for essential metals in both tested groups. The noncarcinogenic risk values of the individual metals indicate that there is no health risk, but their combined effects might constitute a potential risk for children. Furthermore, the cumulative cancer risk of all samples studied exceeds the recommended threshold risk limit (> 10-4) in both total population and children, indicating a risk of potential health problems for consumers especially for children, who are more vulnerable to toxic metal exposure.

Evidence of cadmium and mercury involvement in the Aß42 aggregation process.

Aß42 is a small peptide formed from 42 aminoacids that presents a great propensity to aggregate until it forms fibrils. Aß42 aggregation and fibrillation are very complex processes whose molecular mechanisms seem to depend on characteristics intrinsic to the peptide molecule, as well as extrinsic factors. Peptide concentration, mean pH and several substances, including metal ions, are principal extrinsic factors for the oligomerization process. Different metals affect the aggregation of the Aß42 molecule, and their toxicity favours the misfolding and aggregation of the peptide. In this study, we evaluate the effect of different concentrations of Cd2+ and Hg2+ on the Aß42 peptide in solution by different methods. The toxicity of Aß42 was evaluated with the MTT assay, while the aggregation process was monitored by single-channel measurements, electrophoresis and western blot. Cd2+ and Hg2+ seem to favour the formation of high-molecular-weight aggregates, to decrease ion channel turnover inside the membrane and to significantly increase Aß42 toxicity.

PCBs and PCDD/Fs in Bluefin Tuna: Occurrence and Dietary Intake.

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polychlorinated dibenzo-furans (PCDD/Fs) were measured in Mediterranean bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) to verify the compliance with the EU regulations for food commercialization. The estimated intakes were also evaluated. The analyses were performed by gas chromatography-ion trap tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS-MS). The PCBs were dominant (1132.0 ng g−1 l.w.), followed by PCDFs (23.2 pg g−1 l.w.) and PCDDs (8.5 pg g−1 l.w.). The pollutant levels (dl-PCBs: 0.7 pg TEQ/g w.w.; PCDD/Fs: 1.9 pg TEQ/g w.w.) and their sum expressed as TEQ values (2.6 pg TEQ/g w.w.) remained below the limits for human consumption proposed by the European Union. On the contrary, the sum of the six indicator non-dioxin-like PCBs (84.2 ng g−1 w.w.) was slightly above the maximum level fixed by the in-force legislation. The estimated dietary intakes for PCDD/Fs plus dl-PCBs were below the toxicological reference values (TRVs) set by various international bodies, while non-cancer and cancer risk assessment revealed a safety concern. Additionally, the estimated intake of ndl-PCBs exceeded the maximum levels set by different European countries. These findings suggest caution in tuna consumption together with an active and frequent surveillance of the chemical quality of its flesh.

Estimated Dietary Intake of Trace Metals from Swordfish Consumption: A Human Health Problem.

Trace element (Hg, Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu, Ni, and Cr) occurrence was determined in the muscle tissue of swordfish collected in the Mediterranean Sea to assess whether the intakes complied with the recommended levels for essential metals and permissible levels for toxic elements. Metals were analyzed by an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (Shimadzu AA 7000). The methodology of Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) was also evaluated. The ranking order of toxic metal concentration was Hg > Cd > Pb, while for essential elements the distribution pattern followed the sequence Zn > Cu > Ni > Cr. The Estimated Weekly Intakes (EWI) as well as THQ for Cd and Pb indicated that swordfish consumption did not pose a risk to human health, whereas the major concern was for Hg. Fish size-related changes in Hg concentrations resulted in high EWI and THQ values relative to larger fish consumption, implying a potential risk to human health. For consumer protection, catches of swordfish approximately above 44 kg should be avoided as these fish have a higher risk of containing toxic levels of Hg.

Assessment of mercury and cadmium via seafood consumption in Italy: estimated dietary intake (EWI) and target hazard quotient (THQ).

Mercury (Hg) and cadmium (Cd) were quantified in fish, cephalopods and crustaceans from Italian supermarkets. Sample compliance with European dietary standards as well as human health risks according to provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) and the methodology of target hazard quotient (THQ) were evaluated. Both element levels were under European legal limits, except for some fish having Hg and Cd contents exceeding or equal to critical values. Estimated weekly intakes (Hg: fish = 0.07-1.44 µg kg(-1) bw week(-1); cephalopods = 0.05-0.15 µg kg(-1) bw week(-1); crustaceans = 0.04-0.08 µg kg(-1) bw week(-1); and Cd: fish = 0.04-0.32 µg kg(-1) bw week(-1); cephalopods = 0.07-0.27 µg kg(-1) bw week(-1); crustaceans = 0.05-0.11 µg kg(-1) bw week(-1)) as well as THQ < 1 were within safe limits. Although there seems to be no important risks associated with seafood consumption, Hg exposure was in some cases close to safety margins and thus levels of this metal should be under frequent surveillance.

The expression and activity of 5-LOX in the large intestine of horses harbouring encysted cyathostomin larvae.

Leukotrienes are products of the arachidonic acid metabolism and act as potent inflammatory mediators modulating the immune response and various physiological processes. This study evaluated the expression and activity of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), the enzyme that catalyzes the first two steps in the biosynthesis of leukotrienes, in horses infected by larval cyathostomins. Tissue samples from dorsal and ventral colon, and from the cecum were collected from 16 horses slaughtered for human consumption. Samples were analyzed to estimate the burdens of encysted cyathostomin larvae and adult luminal stages, and then processed for the evaluation of biochemical parameters. No significant differences were found in the protein expression and enzymatic activity of 5-LOX between animals harbouring only adult parasites and negative horses. The protein expression and enzyme activity of 5-LOX were significantly higher in horses harbouring encysted larvae in comparison with horses free of encysted larvae. Although preliminary, these results indicate that 5-LOX is an important mediator in the course of horse cyathostominosis and further studies are warranted to unveil the possible role this enzyme plays in the pathogenesis of horse cyathostominosis, and its potential as a diagnostic marker.

Evaluation of toxic metal (Hg, Cd, Pb), polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs), and pesticide (DDTs) levels in aromatic herbs collected in selected areas of Southern Italy.

This study provides, for the first time, data regarding levels of toxic metals (Hg, Cd, and Pb) and organochlorine compounds (PCBs and DDTs) in various aromatic herbs as rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), sage (Salvia officinalis), laurel (Laurus nobilis), oregano (Origanum vulgare), and spearmint (Mentha viridis) collected in some towns of the Southern Italy with different anthropogenic and population pressure. Metal and organochlorine compound concentrations were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometer and gas-chromatography mass spectrometer (GC/MS), respectively. Pb emerged as the most abundant element, followed by Cd and Hg, while between organochlorine compounds, PCB concentrations were higher than those of DDTs. The pollutant concentrations were found to vary depending on the different herbs. The highest Pb levels were observed in rosemary (1.66 µg g(-1) dry weight) and sage (1.41 µg g(-1) dry weight), this latter showing also the highest Cd concentrations (0.75 µg g(-1) dry weight). For PCBs, the major concentrations were found in rosemary (2.75 ng g(-1) dry weight) and oregano (2.39 ng g(-1) dry weight). The principal component analysis applied in order to evaluate possible similarities and/or differences in the contamination levels among sampling sites indicated differences area-specific contamination.

Persistent organic pollutants (PCBs and DDTs) in European conger eel, Conger conger L., from the Ionian Sea (Mediterranean Sea).

The present study provides novel data regarding levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (DDTs) in muscle tissue of European conger eel (Conger conger) from Ionian Sea (Mediterranean Sea). The mean concentration of PCBs (891 ng g(-1) lipid weight) was higher than those of DDTs (543 ng g(-1) lipid weight). PCB pattern was dominated by higher chlorinated congeners (hexa-CBs: 69.3 %, penta-CBs: 17.2 %, hepta-CBs: 13.3 %). Regarding DDT pattern, p,p'-DDE was prevalent in all samples (85.5 %), suggesting no recent DDT input. The total 2,3,7,8-TCDD toxic equivalent (TEQs) of coplanar PCBs, including mono-and non-ortho congeners was 0.41 pg g(-1) wet weight (29.92 pg g(-1) lipid weight). The PCB and DDT levels, as well as TEQ concentrations were lower than most of the corresponding published data for fish from Mediterranean and non-Mediterranean regions, probably reflecting a moderately contaminated area.

Contamination by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) from the Southeastern Mediterranean Sea.

Concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) including dioxin-like PCBs (non-ortho, PCB 77, PCB 126, and PCB 169 and mono-ortho, PCB 105, PCB 118, and PCB 156) were measured in different organs and tissues (melon, blubber, liver, kidney, lung, heart, and muscle tissue) of striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba) from the Eastern Mediterranean Sea (Adriatic Sea). The mean highest levels were in blubber and melon, followed by liver, kidney, lung, heart, and muscle tissue. PCB profiles were similar in all tissues and organs being dominated by the higher chlorinated homologues (hexa-CBs, 55.8-62.1%; penta-CBs, 15.4-20.0%; and hepta-CB PCB 180, 12.7-16.5%). Major PCBs in all tissues were congeners 138 and 153 collectively accounting for 50.6-58.3% of the total PCB concentrations, followed by PCB 101, 105, 118, and 180 constituting from 27.0% to 31.0%. PCB levels were higher in adult males than in adult females. The estimated 2,3,7,8-TCDD toxic equivalents of non- and mono-ortho PCBs were much higher than the threshold level above which adverse effects have been observed in other marine mammals species, suggesting that striped dolphins in this region are at risk for toxic effects.

Organochlorine residues (PCBs and DDTs) in two torpedinid species' liver from the Southeastern Mediterranean Sea.

PURPOSE: Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and PCB congeners accumulation profile were measured in the liver of two torpedinid species (Torpedo nobiliana and Torpedo marmorata) from the Mediterranean Sea (Adriatic Sea) in order to investigate the relative toxicological impact of these highly toxic PCBs in the organisms in question. METHODS: A Thermo Trace GC connected to a Thermo PolarisQ MS operated in electron impact ionization (EI) mode was used to quantify PCBs and DDTs. The method performance was assessed through participation in interlaboratory studies organized by QUASIMEME. RESULTS: PCBs emerged as the most abundant pollutants, followed by DDTs. Contaminant load was higher in T. nobiliana (PCBs, 1,040 ng g(-1) lipid weight; DDTs, 234 ng g(-1) lipid weight) than in T. marmorata (PCBs, 434 ng g(-1) lipid weight; DDTs, 78 ng g(-1) lipid weight). PCB 118, 138, 153, and 180 were the dominant congeners accounting for over 95.0% of the total PCBs. Among DDTs, p,p'-DDE was detected in both species, always with a greater concentration than other pesticides. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides, for the first time, data regarding levels of organochlorine contamination in torpedinid species from the Mediterranean Sea. The comparability of TEQ levels with those encountered in predators at top of trophic chains constitutes a warning signal that should not be underestimated.

Levels and congener profiles of PCBs and PCDD/Fs in blue shark (Prionace glauca) liver from the South-Eastern Mediterranean Sea (Italy).

Liver of blue shark (Prionace glauca) specimens from the South-Eastern Mediterranean Sea were analyzed for the presence of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), including coplanar congeners, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and dibenzofurans (PCDFs). PCBs were the dominant chemicals, followed by PCDFs and PCDDs. The pattern of PCB congener concentrations in the hepatic tissue was dominated by higher chlorinated compounds. The specific profile of toxic PCDD/F congeners was characterized mainly by 2,3,7,8-TCDF and 2,3,7,8-TCDD, followed by 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD and 2,3,4,6,7,8-HxCDF. The total 2,3,7,8-TCDD toxic equivalent (TEQs) was 149 pg g⁻¹ lipid wt. The profile of TEQ shows that PCDDs present the greatest risk to this species contributing to total toxicity with a percentage approximately of 60%, while the contribution of PCDFs and DL-PCBs is almost the same being 22.4% and 21.6%, respectively. Further investigations are urgently needed to characterize the PCDD/Fs contamination levels not only in elasmobranch fish but in all Mediterranean marine biota.

Distribution of trace elements in the tissues of smooth hound Mustelus mustelus (Linnaeus, 1758) from the southern-eastern waters of Mediterranean Sea (Italy).

Trace element concentrations (Hg, Cd, Pb, Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn) were determined in the muscle, gonads, skin, and brain of smooth hound Mustelus mustelus in order to define the metal distribution patterns. The data indicated that metal accumulation depended on the tissues probably as a consequence of metabolic needs, physiochemical properties, and detoxification processes specific for each element. Metal concentrations were higher in gonads (Hg 0.10-0.70 µg g(-1); Cd 0.02-0.10 µg g(-1); Pb 0.08-0.39 µg g(-1); Cr 0.06-0.36 µg g(-1); Ni 1.37-3.00 µg g(-1); Zn 9.15-16.30 µg g(-1); Cu 1.95-21.62 µg g(-1)) and skin (Hg 0.16-0.66 µg g(-1); Cd 0.01-0.04 µg g(-1); Pb 0.10-0.62 µg g(-1); Cr 0.15-0.68 µg g(-1); Ni 1.60-7.20 µg g(-1); Zn 9.00-16.00 µg g(-1); Cu 0.78-6.80 µg g(-1)) than brain (Hg 0.04-0.34 µg g(-1); Cd 0.01-0.05 µg g(-1); Pb 0.03-0.59 µg g(-1); Cr 0.08-0.48 µg g(-1); Ni 5.59-9.69 µg g(-1); Zn 5.90-7.35 µg g(-1); Cu 0.90-4.02 µg g(-1)), while muscle always exhibited the lowest levels (Hg 1.03-2.58 µg g(-1); Cd 0.01-0.06 µg g(-1); Pb 0.02-0.16 µg g(-1); Cr 0.05-0.28 µg g(-1); Ni 1.13-2.48 µg g(-1); Zn 2.64-5.06 µg g(-1); Cu 0.33-2.23 µg g(-1)). Ni and Hg took exception having the highest concentrations in brain and muscle, respectively. An assessment of the risk for human due to the consumption of these marine organisms was also undertaken. Regarding Cd and Pb intakes, consumption did not guide to any concerns, while it should be extremely moderate when considering Hg intake. The comparative analyses revealed that Mediterranean sharks were exposed to higher Hg levels than biota inhabiting open ocean.

Detection and quantitative analysis of organochlorine compounds (PCBs and DDTs) in deep sea fish liver from Mediterranean Sea.

BACKGROUND, AIM AND SCOPE: Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) concentrations were determined in the liver of two deep sea fish species, Mediterranean slimehead and blackfin sorcerer, from the Adriatic Sea (southeastern Mediterranean Sea). RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The examination of congener profiles showed that hexachlorinated molecules were dominant (hexa-CBs, 55.3-56.2%), followed by penta-CBs (21.5-21.8%) and hepta-PCB 180 (14.9-16.0%). PCB 138, 153 and 180 were the prominent congeners accounting for 69.3% of the total PCBs. Among the compounds of DDT, p,p'-DDE was the most dominant molecule (Mediterranean slimehead, 86.6%; blackfin sorcerer, 92.8%), demonstrating the old age of these compounds in the environment. In both species, PCB contents were higher than those of DDTs. Contaminant load was higher in Mediterranean slimehead (PCBs, 1,086 ng g(-1) lipid weight; DDTs, 799 ng g(-1) lipid weight) than in blackfin sorcerer (PCBs, 561 ng g(-1) lipid weight; DDTs, 224 ng g(-1) lipid weight). CONCLUSION: The high ratios SigmaPCBs/SigmaDDTs indicated predominantly industrial versus agrarian activities in the area. Dioxins toxic equivalent (TEQ) concentrations (8.1-18.7 pg TEQ per gram wet weight) reached those encountered in marine organisms at higher levels in the trophic chain, revealing the onerous status of contamination by PCBs in Mediterranean deep sea biota.

Accumulation of polychlorinated biphenyls and organochlorine pesticide in pet cats and dogs: assessment of toxicological status.

PCB and DDT concentrations were determined in the adipose tissue of cats and dogs from Southern Italy. In cats p,p'-DDE was the most abundant DDT component (95.0%), while in dogs these compounds were absent, except in two specimens. PCB concentrations were higher in cats (199.02 ng g(-1) lipid weight) than in dogs (41.61 ng g(-1) lipid weight). Also there were inter-specific differences in the contribution of the different congeners to PCBs, although PCB 138, PCB 153 and PCB 180 were the most representative congeners in both species. Animals from one location, Taranto City, had significantly elevated concentrations of dioxin-like PCBs compared to the other locations. Consequently the estimated mean 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin toxic equivalents (TEQs) of coplanar PCBs were higher in these animals (cats: 0.65 pg g(-1) lipid weight; dogs 0.29 pg g(-1) lipid weight) than in the other ones (cats: 0.12 pg g(-1) lipid weight; dogs: 0.001 pg g(-1) lipid weight).

Concentrations and hazard assessment of polychlorinated biphenyls and organochlorine pesticides in shark liver from the Mediterranean Sea.

Concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (DDTs), were determined in the liver of two different shark species Prionace glauca (blue shark) and Dalatias licha (kitefin shark) from the Mediterranean Sea. In blue shark liver, the concentrations of PCBs (2482 ngg(-1)) and DDTs (2392 ngg(-1)) were comparable, while in kitefin shark the hepatic concentrations of DDTs (4554 ngg(-1)) were significantly higher than those of PCBs (1827 ngg(-1)). Contamination levels differed between species, with kitefin shark showing consistently higher concentrations of DDTs, and blue shark higher levels of PCBs. Congener-specific PCB profiles, similar between the two species were dominated by the higher chlorinated congeners (hexachlorobiphenyls: 62.8-63.9%, penta-: 15.2-21.3%, hepta-: 13.4-14.5%) with most of the lower chlorinated congeners being absent or present at very low levels. In both species, the total 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenz-p-dioxin toxic equivalent (TEQs) concentrations (blue shark: 2.51 pg/g; kitefin shark: 1.46 pg/g) seem to be relatively modest. Regards to DDT component pattern, p,p'-DDE was dominant in the liver of both species (blue shark: 81.5%; kitefin shark: 38.0%), while the percentage composition of the other metabolites was differently characterized. The composition pattern of DDTs and the low value of p,p'-DDE/DDTs ratio in the specimens from Ionian Sea suggest that organochlorine pesticide contamination is still continuing in this marine environment.

Polychlorinated biphenyl and organochlorine pesticide residues in Lophius budegassa from the Mediterranean Sea (Italy).

Persistent organochlorines, such as polychlorinated biphenyls, including coplanar congeners and DDT compounds, were measured in the liver of a teleost species: namely, Lophius budegassa. The mean concentrations of PCBs (1249 ng/g wet wt) were comparable with DDTs mean levels (1459 ng/g wet wt). Among DDTs the compound found at the highest concentration was p,p'-DDE representing 76% of the total DDT burden. The PCB profiles were dominated by congeners 153, 180, and 138 accounting for 49.8%, 16.0% and 13.7% of the total PCBs. The total 2,3,7,8-TCDD toxic equivalent (TEQs) of six coplanar PCBs, including mono- and non-ortho congeners, was 0.98 pg/g wet wt. The congeners with highest TEQs values were non-ortho-congeners followed by mono-ortho ones.