P25-9 Sat Jan 2 Effects of elevated temperature on 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine expression and DNA damage in the eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) Faizur Rahman, MD *; Saydur Rahman, MD ; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley; University of Texas Rio Grande Valley mdfaizur.rahman01@utrgv.edu
Global temperature increases due to anthropogenic activities. The effects of rising temperatures are well documented in teleost species. The Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica) is an ideal shellfish species to study global warming and oxidative DNA damage. In this study, I observed the effects of high temperature on heat shock protein-70 (HSP70), 8’-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), ssDNA, dsDNA, γH2AX, a molecular marker of DNA damage, BAX, apoptosis regulator proteins, and caspase-3 (CAS); protein expressions in gills of oysters. I also analyzed extrapallial fluid (EPF) conditions in the oyster. Immunohistochemical results showed that elevated temperatures (28 and 32°C) significantly increased HSP70, 8-OHdG, dsDNA, CAS, and γH2AX protein expressions, in gills of oysters compare to control (24°C). EPF glucose level also increased; however, EPF protein concentration decreased in heat exposure oysters. Collectively, these results suggest that heat shock driven oxidative stress induces DNA damage which may lead to decreased various physiological functions in oysters.
