G-PROTEIN(S), G(ALPHA-Q) G(ALPHA-11), IN THE OLFACTORY NEUROEPITHELIUM OF THE CHANNEL CATFISH (ICTALURUS-PUNCTATUS) IS ALTERED BY THE HERBICIDE, DICHLOBENIL/

The immunohistochemical localization of G(alpha q)/G(alpha 11) was stu died ill the olfactory neuroepithelium of the channel catfish. Antigen icity in the rosette was found at the apical surfaces of cells, within the apical neck regions of some cells, and within the area of the bas al nerve tracts. Specific labeling was eliminated by preincubation of the G(alpha q)/G(alpha 11) antibodies with the cognate peptide. Catfis h, exposed to a 20 ppm dose of the herbicide, dichlobenil, displayed a reduction in G(alpha q)/G(alpha 11) antigenicity. Proteins were extra cted from olfactory tissues and solubilized, Using SDS-PAGE and Wester n blotting, bands corresponding in apparent molecular weight to a 38 k D protein were found, These data demonstrate that the herbicide may be a potent nasal olfactory toxicant in aquatic situations. (C) 1997 Els evier Science Ireland Ltd.