Resíduos de risperidona no ambiente: efeitos persistentes e transgeracionais

Abstract

Contamination of aquatic environments by pharmaceutical components is a growing concern. Little is known about the consequences of exposure to these chemical agents, especially during the early stages of development. Risperidone, an atypical antipsychotic dopaminergic and serotonergic antagonist, was found in low concentrations in different aquatic environments, including drinking water. Using the experimental organism Zebrafish (Danio rerio) we aimed to simulate the exposure of a non-target organism to different concentrations of risperidone during the first 5 days of life. After exposure, the animals were placed in aquariums free of contaminants until reaching the adult stage. As adults, fish have shown decreased responsiveness to risk situations. After the behavioral analyzes, the fish were placed for breeding and their offspring analyzed. Risperidone also altered locomotor patterns in the offspring, proving their transgenerational effects. We conclude with the study that risperidone can cause considerable changes in the anti-predatory behavior of the fish resulting in important impacts on the maintenance and survival of the species and that these effects can be perceived through generations not directly exposed.