Metallothioneins against metal toxicity and as biomarker in marine organisms
Metallothioneins against metal toxicity and as biomarker in marine organisms
Date
1998
Authors
Cherian, M.G.
Raghunath, M.R.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Society of Fisheries Technologists(India),Cochin
Abstract
Invertebrate metallothioneins (MT) provide an attractive system for studying the protective mechanisms of metal toxicity in aquatic organisms, and have use as biomarkers for metal exposure. Like mammalian MT, certain basal levels of MT are found in fish and invertebrates, depending on their developmental stage and exposure to excessive amounts of metals. They are inducible proteins and have protective effects against metal toxicity because of their high affinity for metals like zinc, copper, cadmium and mercury. Chemical properties, biological functions, protective role against metal toxicity and the potential use of MT as a biomarker of metal pollution in aquatic organisms are reviewed.
Description
Keywords
Metallothioneins, metal toxicity, biomarker, marine organisms
Citation
Proceedings of the Symposium on "Advances and Priorities in Fisheries Technology" held during 11-13 Feb, 1998, Cochin ed. by Balachandran, K.K. et. al, 302-306