Evaluation of glutathione S-transferase (GST) as a biomarker of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAHs) in Mudskipper (Periophthalmus dussemerie)

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have different physiological effects on aquatic organisms. Glutathione S-Transferase (GST) as a biomarker of PAHs in liver of mudskipper (Periophthalmus dussemerie) was analyzed. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were assessed in the sediments and liver of mudskipper along the coast of north western part of Persian Gulf (Khuzestan coast). PAHs and GST were measured by HPLC and spectrophotometry methods respectively. Total PAH concentrations in sediment and liver tissues ranged between 113.50-3384.34 ngg-1 dw, 3.99-46.64 ngg-1 dw. The highest PAHs concentration and enzymatic activity were identified at Jafari site while the lowest were at Bahrakan. Significant correlation was found between GST and PAHs.The results of this study confirmed the use of mudskipper (P. dussemerie) as a bioindicator of PAHs pollution in marine ecosystem. The results also indicate that GST in p. dussemerie could be extended as a biomarker of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).