SUPEROXIDE ANION-RADICAL GENERATION AS A TEMPERATURE STRESS-RESPONSE IN THE GILLS OF FRESH-WATER CATFISH HETEROPNEUSTES-FOSSILIS - ROLE IN MUCUS EXUDATION UNDER ELEVATED-TEMPERATURE

Temperature induced superoxide anion radical (O-2(.-)) generation in v ivo has been demonstrated in the gills of Heteropneustes fossilis by e lectron spin resonance (ESR) spin trapping. Temperature exposures from 25 degrees C to 37 degrees C for various times (1-4 hr) caused genera tion of O-2(.-) in the gill. The acid mucopolysaccharide test was cond ucted in gill sections during elevated temperatures. The results showe d an increased activity of mucopolysaccharide in gills which indicate an increased mucus secretion in gills during elevated temperatures. Th e detectable stable levels of O-2(.-) in the gill at 32 and 37 degrees C temperature exposures point towards a probable role for this radica l in the exudation of mucus under elevated temperature. (C) 1998 Elsev ier Science Inc.