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Effect of lead on the reaction of O-demethylase in p-nitro
anisole in the cladoceran Moina macrocopa
L. Martinez-Tabche1,
N.E. Morales2*, M. B. Ramirez1,
C.I. Galar1 & G.H. Cardona1
1Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory,
Department of Pharmacy, National School of Biological Sciences,
National Polytechnic Institute, Plan de Ayala y Carpio s/No.
11340-Mexico, D.P Mexico
2Department of Recreation
and Park Administration, Indiana University, Bloomington IN
47405, USA (*author for correspondence)
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Abstract
The presence of the Mixed-Function Oxydase (MFO) system,
in Moina macrocopa was detected through the transformation
of p-nitroanisole to para-nitrophenol. The presence of this enzymatic
system suggested that this cladoceran participates in the biotransformation
of xenobiotics in aquatic ecosystems. This capacity, in conjunction
with the aquatic flea's high tolerance to environmental stress,
suggested that M. macrocopa could be used in bioremediation
efforts to increase ecosystem health. The effects of lead on the
MPO system in M. macrocopa, were also studied. Lead acted
as an inhibitor of the enzymatic complex. Therefore, induction of
MFO-activity as an early warning may not work in waterbodies affected
by both inducers of MFO and inhibitors like lead.
Keywords: Moina macrocopa, bioindicator, Mixed-Function
Oxydase, lead
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