Transcriptomic effects in larval offspring induced by chronic parental exposure to an arsenic-contaminated oligochaete diet in Zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Whole-transcriptome analysis in 5-dpf larvae was performed to identify molecular pathways associated with neurobehavioral alterations. Parental dietary arsenic exposure resulted in a dose-dependent increase in ROS production, apoptotic cells, and lipid peroxidation in offspring. Neurodevelopmental impairments were also evident in arsenic lineages, including reduced hypothalamic neurogenesis and impaired development of dopaminergic and motor neurons.

Larvae exhibited behavioral abnormalities such as reduced locomotor activity, heightened anxiety, reduced social interaction, and cognitive impairments. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant dysregulation in pathways related to early neurodevelopment and synaptic functions. These findings demonstrate that environmentally realistic parental arsenic exposure can induce neurobehavioral deficits in offspring by inducing oxidative stress and disrupting neurogenesis and neural signaling pathways.