Impact of Aflatoxin B1 on hematological indices, oxidative stress, and gill surface ultrastructure in Channa punctata

Abstract Background Aflatoxin contamination is a global concern that imperils food security and aquaculture. This study was focused on evaluating the toxicological impact of Aflatoxin B1 on fish growth, hematological parameters, and oxidative stress markers in the liver, kidneys, and gill tissues of Channa punctata . Additionally, a superficial examination of the gill tissue was conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). After 2 weeks of acclimatization, following LD 50 estimation (6.5 mg/kg), the sublethal dosages (1/10, 1/20, and 1/40 of LD 50 ) were calculated. The fish specimens (70 ± 4 g) were then subjected to three sublethal doses of Aflatoxin B1 (11.4 µg, 22.8 µg, 45.5 µg), with one group serving as a control. The toxin was first dissolved in a medium of 0.04% DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) to create a stock solution; each dose had a final volume of 0.5 mL (toxin and DMSO), ready to be administered via the intraperitoneal route . Result After 28 days of exposure, significant depletion was observed in the erythrocyte and leucocyte counts, hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, and derived erythrocytic indices. Moreover, dose-dependent increases in lipid peroxidation alongside significant reductions in antioxidant enzyme (Superoxide dismutase, Catalase, glutathione peroxidase, Glutathione reductase) and non-enzymatic antioxidants, such as glutathione (GSH) levels in liver, kidney, and gill tissues. SEM revealed gill surface deformities as the toxin concentration was increased; severe alteration was observed in high Aflatoxin B1 concentration(45.5 µg). Conclusion The observed deviations of these parameters from optimum were evident; depletion in hematological indices indicates hematotoxicity, a decrease in antioxidants suggests oxidative stress, and also the surface erosion in gills indicates histopathology induced by Aflatoxin B1. Collectively, it was concluded that AFB1 contamination is a serious matter of concern, as it affects the sustainability of aquaculture and also raises food safety concerns for humans who consume these fish. It emphasizes the critical necessity for strategies to prevent or mitigate the aflatoxin effects.