Do endocrine disrupting chemicals threaten Mediterranean swordfish? Preliminary results of vitellogenin and Zona radiata proteins in Xiphias gladius

Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) have the potential to alter hormone p athways that regulate reproductive processes in wildlife and fishes. In thi s research the hypothesis that Mediterranean top predator species (such as large pelagic fish) are potentially at risk due to EDCs is investigated. Th ese marine organisms tend to accumulate high concentrations of EDCs such as polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons (PHAHS). The potential effects of ED Cs on a fish species of commercial interest, the top predator Xiphias gladi us (swordfish), were investigated using vitellogenin (Vtg) and Zona radiata proteins (Zrp) as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Dramatic induction of typically female proteins (Vtg and Zrp) was detected by ELISA and Weste rn Blot in adult males of the species. These results are the first warning of the potential risk for reproductive function of Mediterranean top predat ors, and suggest the need for continuous monitoring of this fragile marine environment. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.