MALDI mass spectrometry imaging reveals oxybenzone-induced metabolic heterogeneity in sea anemones

As a common ingredient in sunscreens, oxybenzone has been established as a major factor in coral bleaching. Previous studies have revealed the toxic mechanisms of oxybenzone in sea anemones and corals. However, its spatial distribution within sea anemones and the resulting metabolic effects remains unclear. This study investigated the effects of varying oxybenzone concentrations under UV-exposed and UV-free conditions on sea anemones. We employed MALDI-MSI to first map the spatial distribution of oxybenzone and endogenous small molecular metabolites. Our results demonstrate that oxybenzone preferentially accumulates in the column than in the tentacles. Moreover, we discuss the relationship of the heterogeneity in endogenous metabolites distribution on physiological activities in sea anemones. Spatial metabolomics revealed compartmentalized metabolic dysregulation in sea anemone tissue, characterized by significant alterations in glutamate metabolism and TCA cycle intermediates in column. Our study underscores the critical role of ultraviolet radiation in activating oxybenzone toxicity, leading to the conclusion that oxidative stress is a major factor causing damage in sea anemones. These findings provide important insights into the spatial toxicological mechanisms of oxybenzone in sea anemones, laying a foundation for future research on the spatial toxicology of personal care products (PCPs) in marine organisms.