Exposure to 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) induced biochemical but not behavioral effects in Daphnia magna.

Environ Toxicol Pharmacol

University of Milan, Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Via Celoria 26, I-20133 Milan, Italy.

Published: June 2023

AI Article Synopsis

  • The study examined the environmental impact of MDMA, a common amphetamine-like stimulant, on aquatic organisms, specifically the freshwater species Daphnia magna, due to its presence in sewage and surface water.
  • Researchers investigated how a 21-day exposure to two concentrations of MDMA affected biochemical indicators (like oxidative stress) and behavioral responses (swimming activity).
  • Results showed that while there were minor effects on oxidative stress and energy levels in Daphnia, no significant changes were found in their swimming behavior.

Article Abstract

Among amphetamine like stimulants (ATS), the 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is often detected in sewage and surface waters, representing a potential threat for organisms because of its peculiar mechanism of action (i.e., stimulatory and hallucinogenic). The present study aimed at investigating biochemical (i.e., oxidative stress and energetic biomarkers) and behavioral (i.e., swimming activity) effects induced by a 21-days exposure to two concentrations (50 ng/L and 500 ng/L) of MDMA towards Daphnia magna. The amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the activity of antioxidant (SOD, CAT, GPx) and detoxifying (GST) enzymes and lipid peroxidation were measured as oxidative stress-related endpoints. Total energy content was estimated from the measurement of protein, carbohydrate and lipid content to assess energy reserves. The modulation of swimming activity was assessed as behavioral endpoint. Slight effects of MDMA exposure on oxidative stress responses and energy reserves were observed, while no alterations of the swimming behavior was noted.

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http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.etap.2023.104163DOI Listing

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