Single and Combined Effects of Estrone and 17β-Estradiol on Male Goldfish

Objective To assess the single and combined effects of estrone (E-1) and 17 beta-estradiol (E-2) on goldfish (Carassius auratus). Methods Batch tests were conducted. Serum levels of vitellogenin (VTG) and E-2, gonadosomatic indices (GSI), gonadal DNA damage and liver 7-ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity were measured after exposure for 14 days. Results The VTG level increased significantly in a concentration-dependent manner. The serum E-2 level was significantly higher and the GSI level was significantly lower in goldfish after exposed to the 3 drugs. DNA damage occurred in treated samples and EROD activity was significantly suppressed 7 days after exposure. The joint effect of E-1 and E-2 was additive with regard to VTG induction. Conclusion The results of our study highlight a series of effects of steroidal estrogens on goldfish. Further study is needed to confirm their effect as a whole.