The response of the Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis (Lamarck, 1819) exposed to copper-doped zinc nanoparticles

The aim of this study is to evaluate the exposure effects to copper-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (Cu–ZnO NPs) on bivalves through physiological and biochemical multi-markers. To achieve this objective, the selected biological material is the bioindicator mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis used as a sentinel species of marine pollution. The filtration and respiration capacity of the mussel was significantly decreased (p < 0.05) following exposure to Cu–ZnO NPs, reaching a minimum in mussels exposed to 100 µg/L. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) activities, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were increased, and the highest values were recorded after exposure to 100 µg/L of Cu–ZnO NPs. In addition, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was reduced to a minimum following exposure to 100 µg/L of Cu–ZnO NPs. The estimation of the toxicity of Cu–ZnO NPs through physiological parameters showed that the impact depends on the considered chemical compound and its concentration. In addition, results highlight the sensitivity threshold of the antioxidant defense system in mussels and confirm the capacity of these contaminants to generate reactive oxygen species and even disrupt the nervous system. Overall, using an integrative approach combining the physiological and biochemical responses represents a good way to understand the relational profile between contaminants and marine organisms that could be part of biomonitoring programs of coastal ecosystems.