Unraveling the depuration mechanisms of metals in the burrowing crab (Neohelice granulata Dana, 1852): Biochemical biomarkers, metal-rich granules and bioaccumulation patterns

• Published in: Marine pollution bulletin Vol. 196; p. 115638
• Main Authors: Truchet, D.M., Buzzi, N.S., Negro, C.L., Palavecino, C.C., Mora, M.C., Marcovecchio, J.E.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.11.2023
• Subjects: Decapods; Depuration; Environmental tolerance; Metallothioneins; Metals; Environmental tolerance; Depuration; Decapods; Metals; Metallothioneins
• ISSN: 0025-326X; 1879-3363
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115638

We studied the depuration mechanisms of metals (Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn, Mn, Ni, Cr, Fe) in Neohelice granulata, from sites with different human impacts (PC, a more impacted site and VM, a less impacted one). Our objectives included assessing metal concentrations (essential and non-essential) before and after depuration treatment, evaluating biochemical biomarkers (non-enzymatic and enzymatic) pre and post-treatment, and determining the role of metal-rich granules (MRG) in depuration. We observed variability in metals and biomarkers post-depuration, with no significant differences observed in PC, while Cd and Mn increased and Ni, Cu, and Fe decreased in VM. Integrated biomarkers' response indicated the prevailing antioxidant capacity in depurated organisms. Lipid peroxidation changes were insignificant, except in depurated-VM where values increased. MRG showed a significant decrease only for Mn and Fe, suggesting they were not the primary depuration structure. We concluded that depuration might depend on the species, gender and contamination history. [Display omitted] •We investigated the depuration mechanisms of metals in Neohelice granulata.•We found variability in metal concentrations and biomarker responses after the depuration.•The IBR indicated a prevailing antioxidant capacity in depurated organisms.•Metal-rich granules were not the primary structures involved in metal depuration.•This study highlights the species-specific nature of depuration.