A synthesis on the sub-lethal toxicity of atenolol, a beta-blocker, in teleost fish

Blood pressure medications like atenolol are detected in aquatic ecosystems. The objectives here were to (1) map the global presence of atenolol in surface water and sewage; (2) present current knowledge regarding removal efficiency and degradation of atenolol; (3) identify biological endpoints sensitive to exposure; (4) reveal molecular biomarkers that may be useful for exposure studies in fish; (5) determine whether toxicology studies are within environmental relevance. In fish, atenolol exposure affects endocrine and immune systems, metabolism, and epigenetics. Fewer than half of all studies measuring biological responses use environmentally-relevant concentrations. Heart rate appeared most sensitive to atenolol exposure relative to other endpoints. Data are lacking for behavioral responses to atenolol. Molecular biomarkers for atenolol may include those associated with acute kidney injury, cholestasis, and hypertriglyceridemia. Head kidney and liver may therefore be useful for detecting atenolol-induced effects. This review synthesizes knowledge regarding atenolol-induced toxicity in fish.