Transcriptomic Data Interpretation of Stickleback Embryos response to: Cd, Ibuprofen, and DB

Abstract

This study aimed to biologically interpret the impacts of three common chemicals found in aquatic environments: Cadmium, Ibuprofen, and Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP). We analysed data from previous experiment conducted on three-spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) embryos, utilizing microarray technology to identify upregulated genes. Using DAVID bioinformatics, we focused on clusters with high enrichment scores and significant fold changes, specifically examining the effects of these chemicals on small heat shock proteins (sHSPs), muscle tissue, coagulation processes, and eye lens proteins. By investigating the potential mechanisms behind these upregulated genes and referencing relevant literature, we hypothesize that these chemicals impact muscle tissues, the eye lens, and possibly neurons. However, it remains uncertain whether these effects result primarily from oxidative stress or other toxic mechanisms inherent to the chemicals. Additionally, based on existing research, we anticipate that these chemicals may cause defects in embryos, including cardiac issues, impaired swimming, and eye problems. Further research is needed to fully understand these mechanisms, validate our findings, and explore the broader effects of these chemicals on aquatic organisms.