Chronic exposure to 2,2′-azobis-2-amidinopropane that induces intestinal damage and oxidative stress in larvae of Drosophila melanogaster

• Published in: Environmental toxicology and pharmacology 2024-03, Vol.106, p.104388-104388, Article 104388
• Main Authors: Duarte, Rener Mateus Francisco, Malta, Serena Mares, Mascarenhas, Fernanda Naves Araújo do Prado, Bittar, Vinicius Prado, Borges, Ana Luiza, Teixeira, Renata Roland, Zanon, Renata Graciele, Vieira, Carlos Ueira, Espindola, Foued Salmen
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: AAPH; Amidines; Animals; Developmental toxicity; Drosophila melanogaster; Gastrointestinal tract; Humans; Larva; Oxidative Stress
• ISSN: 1382-6689; 1872-7077
• DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2024.104388

Embryonic development is exceptionally susceptible to pathogenic, chemistry and mechanical stressors as they can disrupt homeostasis, causing damage and impacted viability. Oxidative stress has the capacity to induce alterations and reshape the environment. However, the specific impacts of these oxidative stress-induced damages in the gastrointestinal tract of Drosophila melanogaster larvae have been minimally explored. This study used 2,2-azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH), a free radical generator, to investigate oxidative stress effects on Drosophila embryo development. The results showed that exposing Drosophila eggs to 30 mM AAPH during 1st instar larva, 2nd instar larva and 3rd instar larva stages significantly reduced hatching rates and pupal generation. It increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes and increased oxidative damage to proteins and MDA content, indicating severe oxidative stress. Morphological changes in 3rd individuals included decreased brush borders in enterocytes and reduced lipid vacuoles in trophocytes, essential fat bodies for insect metabolism. Immunostaining revealed elevated cleaved caspase 3, an apoptosis marker. This evidence validates the impact of oxidative stress toxicity and cell apoptosis following exposure, offering insights into comprehending the chemically induced effects of oxidative stress by AAPH on animal development. [Display omitted] •A valuable tool to study human metabolism, tissue development, and oxidative stress in the developing gastrointestinal system.•Enables screening molecules for antioxidant and protective potential, paving way for therapeutic interventions.•AAPH-induced oxidative stress damages Drosophila gut development, leading to increased antioxidant activity and cell damage.•AAPH toxicity in development: Potential toxicity of AAPH in developing organisms.