Toxic Effects of Paraquat on Cytokine Expression in Common Carp, Cyprinus carpio L.

In this study, the acute toxicity of paraquat (PQ) in common carp was determined. Then, the contents and mRNA levels of the cytokines interleukin-1 (IL-1), interferon- (IFN-), and tumor necrosis factor- (TNF-) were evaluated following subacute exposure to PQ. The results show that the LC50 of PQ for common carp at 72 and 96 h was 15.962 and 15.106 mg/L, respectively. Moreover, after 7 days of subacute PQ exposure, the IL-1 content in the fish liver and kidney increased, although it decreased in spleen. However, changes in the IFN- content showed an irregular trend. The TNF- content increased in the liver and spleen but decreased in the kidney. Additionally, PQ exposure also induced alterations in the mRNA levels of IL-1, IFN-, and TNF-. These results suggest that PQ exposure may result in suppression or excessive activation of the immune system in treated fish and lead to immune dysfunction and reduced immunity.