Toxic Effects of Zinc Cyanide on Some Protein Metabolites in Fresh water fish, Cirrhinus mrigala (Hamilton)

Effect of zinc cyanide on protein and certain metabolites content and some enzymes activities was evaluated in liver, muscle and gill tissues of the freshwater fish, Cirrhinus mrigala, during exposure and following cessation of exposure. Fish exhibited significant alterations in the biochemical parameters in all tissues studied. Levels of total protein decreased in all tissues, where as free amino acids (FAA) and protease activities significantly increased (P < 0.05). Similarly decrease was observed in the ammonia level with increased urea and glutamine levels at all exposure periods. The enzymes involved in the protein metabolism altered under the zinc cyanide intoxication. Increase in the protease and aminotransferases revealed amplified transamination processes. Significant increase of phosphatases indicated increased rate of phosphorylation and transport of molecules across the cell membrane. Withdrawal study also exhibited significant recovery in all above biochemical parameters, in all tissue after the 7th day post recovery treatment. Present study exhibited negative effects of zinc cyanide on protein metabolism. Fish with low protein content were not fit for human consumption. Patterns of effects on intermediary metabolism suggest avenues to determine the mechanisms by which such effects occur.