Abstract
Vitellogenic rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss were exposed to pH 7.6, 5.6, and 4.5 for 20 days. Plasma vitellogenin (Vg) which is an indicator of the level of exogenous yolk precursors synthesized in the liver, and transported to the ovary was measured in sexually maturing females using a sensitive homologous radioimmunoassay specific for rainbow trout. During the September–October experiments, Vg levels significantly increased at pH 7.6 and 5.6 over the 20-day exposure period. At pH 4.5, however, Vg levels did not change during the experimental period. Based on differences between day 0 and 20 plasma Vg levels, females at pH 7.6, 5.6, and 4.5 produced 0.357, 0.188 and 0.084 mg/ml/day Vg, respectively. The use of this sensitive homologous radioimmunoassay has confirmed the effect upon the reproductive mechanism of vitellogenesis at pH 4.5. Lower levels of this important yolk source in the oocyte could alter the successful development of the embryo during later stages of development.
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Roy, R.L., Ruby, S.M., Idler, D.R. et al. Plasma vitellogenin levels in pre-spawning rainbow trout,Oncorhynchus mykiss, during acid exposure. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 19, 803–806 (1990). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01055044
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01055044