Gene expression analysis on growth, development and toxicity pathways of male Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), after acute and sub-chronic benzo (α) pyrene exposures.

Benzo[α]pyrene (BaP), a lipophilic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), is a contaminant widely distributed in aquatic systems. Its presence in freshwater organisms is of great concern; particularly in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), due to its economic relevance. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of acute and sub-chronic BaP exposures on molecular growth/development responses, toxicity to DNA pathways and xenobiotic metabolism.