Effects of the ionic liquid [Omim]PF6 on antioxidant enzyme systems, ROS and DNA damage in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

The present study examined the toxic effects of the exposure to different concentrations of the ionic liquid 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate for a 28-day period in zebrafish (Danio rerio) (sampled at 7, 14, 21 and 28 d). The activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase and catalase), levels of reactive oxygen species and DNA damage in fish livers served as the indicators to assess the toxicity of [Omim]PF(6) to zebrafish. The ionic liquid inhibited the activities of the antioxidant enzymes and caused the accumulation of ROS and DNA damage, and the results were concentration- and time-dependent. Male and female fish were tested separately and no differences were observed. The results showed that the ionic liquid could induce oxidative stress and DNA damage in zebrafish and that these effects could also accumulate over time.